Vikramshila University

26.03.2025

Vikramshila University

Why in the news?   

            A decade after Nalanda University came up in the foothills of Rajgir, work is on to revive another ancient centre of learning in Bihar — Vikramshila.

Key Points:

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is currently developing the ancient site of Vikramshila University to boost tourism.
• The Bihar government has identified 202.14 acres in Antichak village, Bhagalpur, for establishing a Central University at the historic site.
• The project was approved by the Centre in 2015 with an initial budget of ₹500 crore, but progress was delayed due to land acquisition issues.

About Vikramshila University:

• Vikramshila University was situated in Bhagalpur, Bihar, along the banks of the river Ganges, making it a prominent historical site in eastern India.
•  The university was established by King Dharmapala of the Pala Dynasty during the late 8th to early 9th century AD, as a response to the perceived decline in educational standards at Nalanda University.
• Vikramshila University met its end when it was destroyed by Muhammad Bin Bakhtiyar Khalji around 1203 AD, an event that also marked the downfall of Nalanda University.

Significance of the university:

• Vikramshila University emerged as a leading hub for Tantric Buddhism and Vajrayana Buddhism, playing a pivotal role in the spread of these traditions.
• The university distinguished itself by specializing in tantric and occult studies, setting it apart from Nalanda University, which offered a broader curriculum.
• During King Dharmapala’s reign, Vikramshila exerted influence over Nalanda’s affairs, highlighting its administrative and academic dominance at the time.
• It drew over 1000 students and 100 teachers from across India and beyond, reflecting its international reputation as a center of learning.
• The institution produced renowned scholars like Atisa Dipankara, who significantly contributed to establishing Buddhism in Tibet.

Features of the university:

• Vikramshila University boasted a central stupa encircled by 208 cells, designed to house student-monks engaged in study and meditation.
• It included a library equipped with a unique cooling system, channeling water from a nearby reservoir to preserve delicate manuscripts.
• The curriculum encompassed a wide range of subjects, such as theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, logic, and tantras, showcasing its academic diversity.
• The university’s administration was overseen by a Kulpati or Mahasthavir, a distinctive leadership role that ensured its smooth functioning.

                                     Source: Indian Express

Who among the following established Vikramshila University?

A.Harsha

B.Dharmapala

C.Chandragupta I

D.Rajendra Chola I

Answer B