Shantiniketan was founded by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, the father of Rabindranath Tagore.  In 1901 Rabindranath Tagore started an experimental place of learning with a 'class room' under the trees, and a group of five pupils.  This class room that he started later became the 'Vishva Bharati University in 1921.  This university attracts pupil from all over the world and aspires to be a spiritual meeting ground in a serene environment.  It has the faculties in all major disciplines like humanities, agriculture, cottage industries, Indian Music and Drama, performing arts, Philosophy, Sanskrit and art.  An interesting feature of this university is that the sculptures, paintings, murals and frescoes are found around the campus.  It has the paintings of Rabindranath and Nandalal Bose and sculptures of Ramkinkar.