History of Nalanda University
1. Introduction
Nalanda University, located near Rajgir in the state of Bihar, India, was one of the world’s earliest residential universities and a great center of learning in ancient times. It flourished as a Buddhist monastic university between the 5th and 12th centuries CE. The name “Nalanda” comes from the Sanskrit words Na-alam-da, meaning “insatiable in giving,” which reflects the spirit of knowledge and generosity that the institution represented. Nalanda stood as a symbol of India’s intellectual achievements and attracted students and scholars from different parts of Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, Tibet, and Sri Lanka.
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2. Foundation and Establishment
Nalanda University was founded during the Gupta Empire, around the 5th century CE, under the patronage of Kumaragupta I (415–455 CE). The Guptas were known for their encouragement of learning, arts, and culture, and their rule is often referred to as the “Golden Age of India.” Historical sources such as the writings of Chinese travelers like Xuanzang (Hsüan-tsang) and Yijing (I-tsing) provide detailed accounts of Nalanda’s grandeur and organization.
The site of Nalanda had already been considered sacred, as it was visited by Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira, both of whom preached nearby. Over time, successive Indian rulers, including Harshavardhana and the Pala kings, contributed to the expansion and maintenance of the university, making it one of the largest centers of education in the ancient world.
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3. Academic Excellence and Curriculum
Nalanda was a fully residential university that accommodated over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers. It offered a broad curriculum that combined religious and secular education. While it was primarily a Buddhist learning center, it also included subjects like:
Logic (Nyaya)
Grammar
Medicine
Mathematics
Astronomy
Philosophy
Metaphysics
The university had a strict admission process, where students had to pass rigorous oral examinations conducted by senior scholars. Once admitted, they enjoyed access to one of the most comprehensive libraries of the ancient world. The library, known as Dharmaganja, consisted of three large multi-story buildings — Ratnasagara (Sea of Jewels), Ratnodadhi (Ocean of Jewels), and Ratnaranjaka (Jewel-adorned) — which stored thousands of manuscripts covering a vast range of knowledge.
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4. International Connections
Nalanda’s reputation spread far beyond India’s borders. Students and scholars from China, Korea, Tibet, and Southeast Asia came to study there. The most famous among them was the Chinese scholar-monk Xuanzang, who studied at Nalanda in the 7th century CE for several years. His detailed writings provide invaluable insights into the structure, curriculum, and daily life at the university. Another Chinese pilgrim, Yijing, also studied and wrote extensively about the methods of teaching and the high standards maintained by the institution.
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5. Decline and Destruction
Nalanda continued to flourish under the Pala dynasty until the 12th century CE. However, it began to decline due to a combination of political instability and foreign invasions. The final blow came around 1193 CE, when the Turkic invader Bakhtiyar Khilji attacked and burned the university. The vast library, containing countless manuscripts and texts, was set on fire and is said to have burned for several months. With this destruction, one of the greatest centers of ancient learning came to an end.
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6. Rediscovery and Revival
The ruins of Nalanda were rediscovered in the 19th century by Sir Alexander Cunningham, the first Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India. Excavations revealed the remains of monasteries, temples, and lecture halls that gave valuable information about its architectural and educational excellence.
In modern times, efforts have been made to revive the spirit of Nalanda. In 2010, the Nalanda University Act was passed by the Indian Parliament to establish a new international university near the ancient site. The new Nalanda University aims to reconnect with its historical legacy as a global center of learning, research, and cultural exchange. It was officially inaugurated in 2014, symbolizing a revival of the ancient institution’s ideals.
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7. Conclusion
Nalanda University was not merely an educational institution but a beacon of knowledge that inspired generations of scholars across Asia. Its commitment to intellectual freedom, intercultural dialogue, and the pursuit of truth made it a model for universities worldwide. Though destroyed centuries ago, Nalanda’s legacy continues to inspire modern education, emphasizing the timeless value of learning and wisdom.
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