Nalanda University

Ancient Nalanda University was a renowned mahavihara that operated as a major center of Buddhist learning from the fifth to the thirteenth centuries CE. It was heavily patronized by the Gupta Empire, particularly under Emperor Kumaragupta I.

While it was deeply rooted in Buddhist theology, the university's curriculum was highly eclectic. It also covered subjects like astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and the ancient Vedic texts.

The university was largely destroyed in the 13th century, with historical accounts frequently attributing the burning of its massive library to the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khalji. The institution never recovered from this devastating attack.

Yes, a contemporary Nalanda University was established nearby in Rajgir, Bihar, India, and officially inaugurated in 2014. It operates as an international residential university aiming to revive the spirit of the ancient center of learning.