Vikramashila was an important learning center in ancient India. It was established during the reign of Dharmapala, a powerful ruler of the Pala Empire, around AD 783. Along with Nalanda, it was one of the two most prominent educational institutions of the time.
Get your dose of History via Email
Historical Background
Dharmapala founded Vikramashila to promote Buddhist education. The primary focus was on training scholars in Vajrayana Buddhism. Located in present-day Bihar, Vikramashila attracted students from various regions. It gained fame for its rigorous scholarship, particularly in philosophy, grammar, and logic.
Structure and Layout
The university was built with a fortified structure, following a layout that included a large central stupa. Around the stupa, there were monasteries, lecture halls, and libraries. Archaeological excavations reveal that the site was well-planned and built to accommodate a significant number of students and monks.
Decline and Destruction
Vikramashila thrived for over four centuries. However, it faced destruction in the late 12th century. In AD 1203, Bakhtiyar Khilji’s army attacked and destroyed the site. This event marked the decline of Buddhism in India and the loss of a major center of learning.
Rediscovery and Excavation
Vikramashila’s ruins were rediscovered during the 19th century. Excavations began in the early 20th century and have since revealed extensive remains, including the central stupa, monasteries, and temples. These findings highlight the university’s significance in ancient Indian education.
Legacy
Vikramashila’s contribution to Buddhist thought and education remains undeniable. Scholars from Vikramashila influenced Tibetan Buddhism and other Buddhist traditions. The rediscovery of its ruins has renewed interest in India’s ancient educational history, reminding us of the intellectual achievements of that era.
Vikramashila’s legacy continues to inspire modern historians and archaeologists, providing valuable insights into the Pala Empire and ancient Buddhist education.
Source:
Neural Pathways is a collective of seasoned experts and researchers with a profound passion for unraveling the enigmas of ancient history and artifacts. With a wealth of combined experience spanning decades, Neural Pathways has established itself as a leading voice in the realm of archaeological exploration and interpretation.