News Mania Desk/ Agnibeena Ghosh/22nd June 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the new Nalanda University Campus in Rajgir, Bihar, on June 19, marking a significant revival of India’s ancient center of learning. Here are ten key facts about Nalanda University that highlight its historical significance and modern revival:
- Nalanda Mahavihara: Located in Magadha (modern-day Bihar), Nalanda Mahavihara was a renowned Buddhist monastery and educational institution. It flourished as a hub of Buddhist philosophy and hosted discussions on various subjects.
- Multitude of Subjects: While Buddhist philosophy was primary, Nalanda also taught subjects like logic, grammar, astronomy, medicine, and mathematics, attracting scholars from across Asia.
- Longevity: Established in the 5th century CE, Nalanda remained a center of learning for over 800 years, until its decline in the 13th century CE.
- The ‘Zero’ Connection: Aryabhata, the mathematician credited with the invention of zero, is speculated to have been associated with Nalanda during the 6th century CE.
- Xuanzang’s Legacy: Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang visited Nalanda in the 7th century CE. He studied and taught at the university, translating Buddhist scriptures into Chinese and spreading Buddhist teachings in China.
- Dharmaganj: Nalanda boasted a vast library known as Dharmaganj, housing millions of palm manuscripts across buildings like Ratnasagar, Ratnodadhi, and Ratnaranjak, some with nine stories.
- Rediscovery: After centuries of obscurity, Nalanda’s ruins were rediscovered by Francis Buchanan in 1812 and confirmed as Nalanda by Alexandar Cunningham in 1861. Excavations were conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India from 1915 to 1937 and later from 1974 to 1982.
- Nalanda University Bill: Inspired by APJ Abdul Kalam’s vision, the Nalanda University Bill was passed in 2010, officially re-establishing the university on November 25, 2010.
- World Heritage Site: Nalanda was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List on July 15, 2016, recognizing its archaeological and historical significance.
- Current Campus: The new Nalanda University Campus inaugurated by PM Modi features modern amenities including a solar plant, water treatment and recycling plants, and extensive water bodies, making it a ‘Net Zero’ Green Campus. It includes academic blocks, auditoriums, hostels, and an amphitheatre, showcasing a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary infrastructure.
The inauguration of the new Nalanda University Campus by PM Modi reflects India’s commitment to reclaiming its status as a global center of knowledge and learning. With state-of-the-art facilities and a rich historical legacy, Nalanda University stands poised to nurture future generations of scholars and continue its legacy of intellectual pursuit and cultural exchange.
