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Construction:
When was it built: 5th century CE
Who built it: Originally by Emperor Kumaragupta I of Gupta Dynasty; Expansion works continued during and after Gupta period
Where is it located: Nalanda district, Bihar, India
Why was it built: As Mahavihara (large Buddhist monastery)
Time Period: 5th century CE to 1200 CE
Location: Bihar, India
Significance: Nalanda was one of the largest and most famous ancient universities, offering courses in a wide range of subjects such as logic, medicine, astronomy, and Buddhist studies. It attracted scholars from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
Notable Figures:
Teachers: Aryadeva, Xuanzang (Chinese scholar)
Students: Dharmapala, Shilabhadra
Founded in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire. Expanded under subsequent dynasties like the Pala Empire. Architectural layout included temples, stupas, and lecture halls.
Importance:
Renowned as a center of learning and Buddhist studies. Attracted scholars from across Asia, contributing to intellectual and cultural exchange. Library housed a vast collection of manuscripts on various subjects.
Construction:
Located in present-day Bangladesh, built during the Pala period (8th-12th century CE). Dharmapala, the ruler of the Pala dynasty, established Somapura University. The university flourished for almost 400 years till the 12th century. Out of the 27 acres of land covered by the university, 21 acres was the main complex only. Somapura University was an education center for Bauddha Dharma (Buddhism), Jina Dharma (Jainism), and Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). It is popularly known as one of the largest and best Buddhist monasteries in the Indian Subcontinent. The teachings of the University have influenced these 5 communities immensely. Architectural style influenced by Pala and Gupta art and architecture. Consisted of monasteries, stupas, and temple complexes.
Time Period: 8th to 12th century CE
Location: Bangladesh
Significance: A renowned Buddhist university and monastic center, it was one of the largest of its kind in the Indian subcontinent and played a key role in preserving Buddhist scriptures.
Notable Figures: Scholars such as Dharmakirti studied and taught here.
Importance:
Significant center for Buddhist education and monastic life. Contributed to the spread of Mahayana Buddhism in South Asia. Artistic sculptures and inscriptions reflect cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia.
Construction:
Odantapuri, in ancient times, was a celebrated Buddhist centre of learning (vihara) in India. Identified with modern Bihar Sharif in Bihar state. It was founded in the 7th century CE by Gopala, the first ruler of the Pala dynasty. No doubt it was founded in emulation of its neighbor Nalanda, another distinguished centre of Buddhist learning.
Construction:
It is in the present-day Bihar district of Bhagalpur. The Pala dynasty ruler Dharmapala (783–820 AD) founded Vikramashila in response to a perceived decrease in the level of study at Nalanda. Dharmapala was Gopala's son, who founded Odantapuri University. This demonstrates how important education was to the Pala rulers of Bengal and Bihar. Around 1203 AD, it was destroyed by Muhammad Bin Bakhtiyar Khalji's forces.
Construction:
Founded in the ancient period, with significant development during the Maurya and Gupta periods. Located in present-day Pakistan, northwest of Islamabad. Comprised of Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and educational institutions.
Time Period: 5th century BCE to 5th century CE
Location: Present-day Pakistan
Significance: One of the oldest universities in the world, Taxila was a center for learning long before it became a renowned educational hub. It attracted students from all over Asia. The university was home to various disciplines, including grammar, medicine, philosophy, and law.
Notable Figures:
Teachers: Pāṇini (grammar), Vasubandhu (Tibetan Buddhism), Kumāralāta (Buddhism)
Students: King Pasenadi of Kosala, Charaka (father of Ayurveda), Jivaka (court doctor of the Buddha)
Importance:
Renowned as a center of learning for various disciplines, including Buddhism, philosophy, and medicine. Attracted students and scholars from across Asia, contributing to cultural and intellectual exchanges. Archaeological remains provide insights into ancient urban planning and educational systems.
The ancient Indian subcontinent was home to several renowned centers of learning that contributed significantly to the development of education, philosophy, and science. These educational institutions were often associated with religious or philosophical traditions, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism. Below is a more detailed and holistic overview of these prominent institutions for students:
Time Period: Ancient, likely 8th or 7th century BCE
Location: Modern-day Bihar, India
Significance: Known for its expertise in logic and the Nyaya Sutra, Mithila was the birthplace of important philosophical traditions.
Notable Figures: Seeradhwaja Janaka (king and philosopher)
Time Period: 600 CE to 1200 CE
Location: Gujarat, India
Significance: A major center of learning, particularly in the fields of Buddhist philosophy and Hinayana Buddhism. It rivaled Nalanda for a time.
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Release Date(Tentative) : 01st May 25
