DID YOU KNOW THE WORLD’S FIRST UNIVERSITY WAS IN INDIA?

A Center of Ancient Knowledge

Nalanda University, located in present-day Bihar, India, was one of the world’s earliest and greatest centers of higher learning. It was founded in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire. Unlike modern universities, Nalanda was not just an institution but a grand learning city where thousands of students and teachers lived, studied, and debated ideas.

International Appeal and Students

Nalanda attracted students and scholars from all over the world, including China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, and even Persia. These scholars traveled great distances to gain knowledge in various subjects. The university had a strict admission process, and only those with high intellectual ability could enter.

Wide Range of Subjects

Nalanda offered a wide variety of subjects for study. These included astronomy, mathematics, logic, grammar, medicine, Buddhism, and philosophy. This variety shows that India was a hub of both spiritual and scientific thinking during ancient times.

An Advanced Library System

Nalanda’s library was one of the most remarkable features of the university. It was called “Dharma Gunj” or “Mountain of Truth.” The library had millions of manuscripts written on palm leaves and was spread across three multi-story buildings. Some parts of the library reportedly burned for months when it was destroyed.

Buddhist Roots and Royal Support

Nalanda was deeply connected to Buddhist traditions. Great Buddhist scholars like Nagarjuna and Aryabhata taught or studied here. Kings from various Indian dynasties and foreign rulers generously supported the university through donations and land grants, helping it thrive for centuries.

Famous Visitors and Alumni

The Chinese traveler and scholar Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) visited Nalanda in the 7th century and stayed for several years. He documented his experiences, praising the university’s academic atmosphere and infrastructure. Another famous traveler, Yijing, also spent time at Nalanda and shared detailed accounts of the learning there.

A Tragic End

In the 12th century, Nalanda University faced destruction at the hands of Turkish invader Bakhtiyar Khilji. The attack led to the burning of its vast library and the decline of scholarly activity. This marked the end of one of the most glorious periods in India’s educational history.

Legacy and Modern Revival

Today, Nalanda remains a symbol of India’s ancient wisdom and global educational leadership. In recent years, efforts have been made to revive the university near its original site. The modern Nalanda University, launched in 2014, aims to recreate the spirit of global learning and intellectual exchange that once thrived there.