The Glory of Nalanda:

The glory of Nalanda University resounds through the corridors of time, echoing the intellectual brilliance that once graced its ancient halls and resonates in its contemporary revival. From the Gupta period, where it stood as a beacon of Buddhist studies, to the present day, Nalanda remains an emblem of knowledge, cultural richness, and architectural splendor. The meticulous reconstruction and revival efforts have not merely preserved the historical site but have birthed a modern institution that transcends borders, welcoming scholars from diverse backgrounds. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary studies, global collaboration, and fostering a vibrant academic community are commendable. Nalanda, in its revitalized form, stands tall as a testament to the enduring power of education, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations and a bridge connecting the ancient legacy of wisdom with the dynamic frontiers of contemporary knowledge.

Nalanda University: A Journey Through Time and Revival

Introduction:

Nalanda University, a venerable institution nestled in the annals of ancient Indian history, stands as a testament to the intellectual prowess and cultural richness of the subcontinent. Nowadays most of the Indians and other eastern country people flying to the Western countries for best & higher education, but Nalanda is the first university which had international recognition during 1100AD. In that period Oxford and other great universities doesn't have that much fame. Nalanda university stands as  the center of Knowledge in 1000years ago, not only Indians but also Japanese, Indonesians, Thailand's, Chinese also practiced their education in this great University. It was the first university to accept the foreigners to study. Nalanda offered many courses including the study of Humans, plants, space. From Ayurveda (Medicine) to Anthariksha shastra (cosmology,astronomy) many courses were taught there. Nalanda is the combined word of Na-alam-daa. It means The Unstoppable Flow fo Knowledge. Although, The rich history,knowledge and culture of Ancient had burned. This extraordinary marvel was attacked by Bakhtiyar khilji. Over 90,00,000 books, Grandhas was burned. Many Buddhist monks, approximately 2,000 Professors and 10,000 students were burned alive. In this article, we explore the forgotten university Nalanda, From its foundation under Kumaragupta I to its contemporary revival in the 21st century, Nalanda's journey is a tapestry woven with threads of knowledge, decline, and resurrection.

Foundation and Early Days:

In the early years, Kumaragupta I laid the cornerstone of Nalanda. Kumaragupta I, a notable Gupta emperor in the 5th century CE, played a crucial role in the foundation of Nalanda University. Recognizing the importance of education and learning, Kumaragupta I established this renowned center of knowledge in the ancient kingdom of Magadha, in present-day Bihar, India. Nalanda University became a leading institution for Buddhist studies, attracting scholars and students from across Asia. Its foundation marked a significant contribution to the flourishing intellectual and cultural landscape of ancient India. propelling it into an era of growth and development under the Gupta Dynasty. The university became a bastion of Buddhist learning and philosophy, attracting scholars from across Asia.

Golden Period:

Golden period of Nalanda

The Golden Period of Nalanda University, spanning from the 5th to the 12th century CE, marked an era of unparalleled academic brilliance and cultural vibrancy. Situated in the heart of Magadha, India, Nalanda became a beacon of knowledge during the Gupta and post-Gupta periods. The university's curriculum, covering a wide array of subjects including philosophy, astronomy, mathematics, and medicine, reflected a commitment to holistic education. Eminent scholars such as Aryabhata, Nagarjuna, and Vasubandhu graced its halls, engaging in intellectual discourse that resonated far beyond its borders. The architectural grandeur of Nalanda, with its impressive temples, lecture halls, and the renowned Ratnodadhi library, underscored the institution's commitment to preserving and disseminating knowledge. Drawing students and scholars from across Asia, Nalanda fostered a multicultural environment that contributed not only to academic excellence but also to the broader cultural and artistic landscape. The enduring legacy of Nalanda's Golden Period remains a testament to the pinnacle of ancient Indian education and intellectual achievement.

Nalanda reached its zenith during the reign of Harsha, flourishing as an international center of education. Its prominence extended beyond borders, drawing students and scholars from China, Korea, Tibet, and beyond. Notable minds like Xuanzang and I-Tsing graced its halls, contributing to disciplines ranging from philosophy to astronomy.

Architectural features: 

Nalanda University's architectural features were a testament to the grandeur and intellectual significance of this ancient seat of learning. The sprawling campus included:

1. Temple Structures: Nalanda boasted impressive temples that blended religious and academic functions, providing a spiritual ambiance to the scholarly pursuits within.

2. Lecture Halls: The university had numerous lecture halls where scholars delivered discourses on diverse subjects. These halls were designed to accommodate large gatherings of students and facilitate academic discussions.

3. Ratnodadhi Library: A highlight of Nalanda's architecture was the Ratnodadhi library, a monumental repository of knowledge. Its construction showcased the importance placed on preserving and disseminating manuscripts, contributing to the intellectual wealth of the institution.

4. Residential Quarters: The campus featured residential quarters for scholars, creating a close-knit intellectual community. These living spaces facilitated collaboration, discussion, and a continuous exchange of ideas among the scholars.

5. Courtyards and Gardens: Nalanda's design incorporated open spaces, courtyards, and gardens, providing serene environments for contemplation and reflection, contributing to the overall ambiance of the university.

6. Water Management Systems: The architects implemented sophisticated water management systems, including tanks and wells, to ensure a sustainable water supply for the needs of the university community.

7. Decorative Elements: The architecture featured intricate carvings, sculptures, and decorative elements, reflecting the cultural and artistic richness of the time and contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the university.

Nalanda University's architectural legacy not only served practical functions but also conveyed the cultural and intellectual values of ancient India, making it a revered center of learning and a symbol of architectural excellence.

Decline and Destruction:

Bakhtiyar khilji destroying Nalanda

However, the golden era faced challenges, leading to a gradual decline. Almost 800 years Nalanda flourished as a light of Education, if so, a dark dense fog covered and ate the brightness Nalanda. Bakhtiyar Khilji is the name of that Darkness. Bakhtiyar khilji belongs to the Khilji race. He came to India from Afghanistan in search of work. He patrolled in Delhi and Avadh kingdoms. But he didn't get any suitable work for him, so he joined in local avadh king's military as a soldier. Later, avadh kings who recognized his war skills and abilities, appointed him as a leader of small soldier troup which works under their chief commander. Avadh kings gave him the responsibilities of two villages in present Bihar, near Nalanda university. One day Bakhtiyar khilji suffered from sick he asked his Hakeem to cure him. Hakeems tried a lot, but there is no result in his body. One day a soldier in his troup advices him to go to Acharya Sri Rahul Sribhadhra (one of the medical expert in Nalanda university). Khilji doesn't believed that a pagan can cure his sickness. Days passing, one day khilji decided to meet Acharya Sri Rahul Sribhadhra to cure him. Khilji made a condition to Acharya to treat him. Khilji asked Acharya, Can you cure my illness without touching or giving any medicine to me?. Acharya Sri rahul laughed and replied OK, there is a way i can cure your illness without touching you. Acharya sri rahul give Khuran to khilji and told him to read it everyday. Few Days later, he become normal, khilji was shocked, he thought how he was cured by reading Khuran without taking any medicine, he doesn't get it how hard he tries Nalanda. Later he realized that Acharya sri rahul coated the khuran with medicine, everyday when he opened the khuran to read, then the medicine goes into his body without his knowledge. He couldn't digest that a pagan having that much medicinal skills. He decided to destroy the university. He attacked Nalanda with his troup, Over 90,00,000 books, Grandhas was burned. Many Buddhist monks, approximately 2,000 Professors and 10,000 students were burned alive. The history of Nalanda ended that day. The invasion by Bakhtiyar Khilji in the 12th century dealt a devastating blow, resulting in the destruction of this academic haven and leaving an indelible mark on the region's intellectual landscape. Persian Archeologist Minhaj-I-Siraj mentioned about the invasion & destruction of Nalanda in his book, TABAKAT-I-NASARI.  He mentioned, how khilji destructed Nalanda in brutally. After burning the whole university, it burnt for one month, the fog covered as dark cloth on the near towns and mountains and even in Indian education history. 

Rediscovery and Restoration:

Centuries later, the ruins of Nalanda were rediscovered, sparking a renewed interest in its cultural and historical significance. Diligent efforts towards restoration and preservation followed, culminating in UNESCO's recognition of Nalanda as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its importance on the global stage.

Rediscovery and restoration of Nalanda

The rediscovery and restoration of Nalanda University in modern times represent a significant chapter in cultural and educational preservation:

1. Rediscovery (19th-20th Century):

   - Nalanda's ruins were largely forgotten until the 19th century when British archaeologists and scholars, including Alexander Cunningham, began rediscovering and documenting the site.

   - Excavations revealed the vast extent of the ancient university, showcasing its architectural grandeur and historical importance.

2. Restoration Efforts (21st Century):

   - In 2006, the governments of India and Bihar initiated the Nalanda Project with the goal of reviving the ancient university as an international center for learning.

   - The Nalanda University Act was passed in 2010, formally establishing the new Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar.

3. Modern Nalanda University:

   - The revived Nalanda University focuses on interdisciplinary studies, reflecting the spirit of the ancient institution.

   - The university attracts students and scholars from around the world, fostering a global academic community.

4. Architectural Reconstruction:

   - While the original ruins remain a historical site, the new Nalanda University has contemporary infrastructure and facilities.

   - The architectural design incorporates elements that pay homage to the ancient university's legacy while embracing modern educational needs.

5. International Collaboration:

   - Nalanda University has formed collaborations with various international institutions, promoting academic exchange and research initiatives.

   - The aim is to recreate Nalanda as a center of excellence in education and research, much like its ancient counterpart.

6. Cultural and Educational Symbolism:

   - The revival of Nalanda University holds cultural significance, emphasizing India's commitment to preserving its rich heritage and fostering global intellectual dialogue.

   - It serves as a symbol of continuity, connecting the past with the present in the pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence. 

However, we cannot restore the grand history and former glory of Nalanda. 

Conclusion:

Nalanda University's enduring legacy serves as a beacon in the context of global education. From the heights of its ancient glory to the challenges of decline and destruction, Nalanda's story is one of resilience and resurgence. As it continues to contribute to contemporary education and research, Nalanda remains a symbol of intellectual vibrancy, bridging the past and present in the pursuit of knowledge, with its rich tapestry of history and resurgence, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of knowledge and intellectual pursuit. From its ancient roots, where it flourished as a beacon of wisdom in Gupta and post-Gupta periods, to its rediscovery and contemporary revival, Nalanda embodies the resilience of human intellect. The architectural grandeur of its past and the modern structures now housing a global community of learners signify the unbroken thread of education and cultural heritage. The new Nalanda University not only pays homage to its illustrious predecessor but also strides into the future, fostering interdisciplinary studies, international collaborations, and a commitment to shaping the minds of generations to come. In this revival, Nalanda transcends its historical boundaries, becoming a symbol not just of ancient Indian learning but a beacon of global academic excellence, embodying the timeless pursuit of knowledge and the cultural richness that defines our shared human legacy.

Thank you for reading. ❤