Cambridge University celebrates its 800th birth anniversary

Octocentenary: At Trinity College, Cambridge.
London: Universities across the world on Saturday of Cambridge University, ringing church bells in a synchronised salute to one of the world’s greatest institutions of learning.

In Cambridge itself, the university rolled out a grand celebration, including a spectacular light and bell-ringing show. Four churches in central Cambridge rang a new work for bells specially composed by Clare College alumnus Phil Earis.

The sound of bells celebrating the university’s octocentenary reverberated across the world as churches from the U.S. to Australia joined in to mark the occasion.


In India, bells rang out at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata, Sacred Heart Cathedral and St. James’ Church in New Delhi, and St. Mark’s Cathedral in Bangalore, keeping a promise made to Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Alison Richard during a visit to India.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is an alumnus of St. John’s College, Cambridge.

— PHOTO: N. RAM

Amartya Sen, who was Master of Trinity College from 1998 to 2004, at the Master’s Lodge during his tenure. The clock belonged to Sir Isaac Newton, who was himself a Master.
All Church of England bishops were asked to have churches in their diocese ring their bells along with the university and many agreed — even Lincoln College in rival Oxford University. more