PU’s Oriental College Pays Tribute to Sir Mark Aurel Stein

By Farzana Chaudhry
Lahore
LAHORE: The Punjab University Oriental College, in collaboration with the Embassy of Hungary in Islamabad, organized a scholarly symposium titled “Scholarly Contributions of Sir Mark Aurel Stein (1862–1943)” on Monday to honour the life and academic legacy of the renowned Hungarian-born British scholar, explorer, and archaeologist.
The event was graced by His Excellency Dr Zoltán Varga, Ambassador of Hungary, who attended as Guest of Honour. Among those present were Punjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, Vice-Chancellor University of Mianwali Prof Dr Nadeem Sheikh, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Dean Faculty of Oriental Learning Prof Dr Muhammad Kamran, Principal Oriental College Dr Nabila Rehman, Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, faculty members, and a large number of students.
In his address, Ambassador Dr Zoltán Varga praised the historic beauty, academic heritage, and cultural legacy of the Oriental College, describing it as a powerful symbol of shared scholarly values between Pakistan and Hungary. He commended Punjab University for its efforts in preserving and promoting the intellectual traditions embodied by figures such as Sir Mark Aurel Stein.
PU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali highlighted Sir Mark Aurel Stein’s groundbreaking contributions to Central Asian archaeology, the study of ancient civilizations, and Oriental scholarship. He emphasized Stein’s continued relevance to modern research and his pivotal role in building intellectual bridges between the East and the West.
Prof Dr Muhammad Kamran expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Hungary, university leadership, scholars, and all participants for making the event a success. He noted that Sir Mark Aurel Stein had the unique distinction of serving as Registrar of the University at the age of 25 in 1887 and as Principal of the Oriental College from 1888 to 1899, beginning his tenure at just 26 years of age.
Principal Oriental College Dr Nabila Rehman spoke about the institution’s rich heritage and historic legacy, describing it as a cradle of Oriental learning and an especially appropriate venue to celebrate a scholar of Sir Mark Aurel Stein’s stature.
A significant moment of the event came when Ambassador Dr Zoltán Varga and Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, together with faculty members, formally inaugurated the newly established Archives Section of the Oriental College — an important initiative for the preservation of rare scholarly material. Dr Nabila Rehman also presented a copy of an original document authored by Sir Mark Aurel Stein, underscoring the college’s dedication to safeguarding its intellectual heritage.
The symposium featured scholarly presentations and in-depth discussions by distinguished academics, exploring various aspects of Stein’s extensive research, expeditions, and lasting influence on archaeology and Oriental studies.
The event concluded with a tree-plantation ceremony on the Oriental College premises, symbolizing both the enduring legacy of Sir Mark Aurel Stein and Punjab University’s commitment to environmental sustainability alongside academic excellence.