Context:
Work started to revive Vikramshila University, the ancient centre of learning.
Vikramshila University:
- Prominent Buddhist learning center
- Founded by King Dharmapala of the Pala Dynasty in the late 8th to early 9th century CE.
- He also founded Somapur Mahavihara in modern Bangladesh.
- Location – Bihar, along the banks of the Ganges River.
- One of the 3 major Buddhist Mahaviharas in India, alongside Nalanda and Odantapuri
- Specialized in Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana), focusing on tantric rituals and occult sciences.
- Subjects taught included theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, logic, and tantras.
- Produced eminent scholars like Atisa Dipankara, who played a key role in establishing Buddhism in Tibet.
- Architectural Features –
- Central Stupa acts as the centerpiece of the university, surrounded by more than 200 cells for student-monks.
- Library – Equipped with a unique cooling system to preserve delicate manuscripts.
- Terracotta Panels – Adorned the walls of terraces, showcasing intricate designs.
- Destroyed by Muhammad Bin Bakhtiyar Khalji around 1203 CE, marking the end of its glory.
Source: IE
Previous Year Question
Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of Buddha?
1. Avanti
2. Gandhara
3. Kosala
4. Magadha
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2015 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 3 and 4 only
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
Magadha, Kosala, Vaishali, Vajji, were the kingdoms and regions that were associated with the life of Buddha.