Formerly, called as Guru Ghasidas University (GGU), established by an Act of the State Legislative Assembly, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya was formally inaugurated on June 16, 1983. Later on, under Central Universities Act 2009, No. 25 of 2009, Guru Ghasidas University has been changed to Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, a Central University of India, located in Bilaspur C.G. State.

Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya is named to honour the great Satnami Saint Guru Ghasidas (born in 17th century), who relentlessly worked for uplifting of downtrodden and waged and against all forms of social evils and injustice prevailing in the society. This university is situated in a socially and economically challenged area.