#258: Nalanda University - Renewed

All you need to know for #UPSC

New Nalanda University campus is now OPEN with numerous benefits.

Not only India, but 17 other countries have financially supported the construction of Nalanda university.

(Learn the past, present and the future of the historic monument in this post)

The campus is said to be the greatest zero carbon campus in the world!

Foundation of the project

In 2006, while addressing the MLAs of Bihar Dr. APJ Abdul kalam proposed the revival of Nalanda University.

In 2010 the parliament passed the Nalanda University Bill, which established it as an International Institution

• The President of India was made the Visitor of the university with the power to start an inspection of the university.

International support & recognition

17 countries from across the globe funded the construction of the university.

Note down the countries from the map:

Significance of campus

It symbolizes the the recreation of the 'ruins' that Bakhtiyar Khilji had abandoned

• It has a total Capacity of 7500 students & teachers

• Amartya Sen was the 1st Vice-chairman of the university

• Pranab Mukherjee was the first Visitor of the university

• Spread across 455 acres covered with water bodies & greenary

• It offers various courses including with Masters, PhD, Diploma & Certificate courses

History of Nalanda

• Nalanda: The land of enlightenment

• It was built by Kumargupta I in 5th century

• Bakhtiyar Khilji had massacred monks and razed their monasteries in 12th century

• The invaluable source of knowledge - the historic library was burnt to ashes

It’s widely believed that the library kept burning for weeks if not months.

Sources of study

It was in the 7th Century that Hsuan Tsang visited Nalanda where he detailed his account.

Hsun Tsang specifies:

• There were 10,000+ students and 2000+ teachers on the campus

• He explains it as a magnificent Buddhist structure

But, here's the catch.

Several scholars debate on the authenticity of the claim.

Because, Mahavira means a great monastery in Sanksrit as well Pali language

Nalanda wasn't only an average Buddhist Vihara

What exactly was it then? 👇🏻

Significance in today’s era

However, today Nalanda is a symbol of India's commitment to education, culture & global collaboration.

It marks the beginning of revival of ancient legacy and soft power.

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