Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Nalanda University’s new campus in Rajgir, Bihar, spanning over 450 acres. This campus, designed as a ‘Net Zero’ Green Campus, emphasizes environmental conservation. The state-of-the-art facilities include two academic blocks with 40 classrooms, accommodating around 1900 students, and two auditoriums, each with a seating capacity of 300 students.
Modern Facilities at Nalanda
Nalanda University offers extensive amenities, including a hostel facility for about 550 students, an international center, and an amphitheater with a capacity of 2000 individuals. Additionally, it boasts a facility club and a sports complex. This modern infrastructure symbolizes the rebirth of an ancient center of learning, combining contemporary amenities with a rich historical legacy.
Significance of the Inauguration
The inauguration ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and ambassadors from various countries. This event marked a significant milestone in the university’s history, highlighting its importance as a global center of learning and cultural exchange.
Origins and Early Excellence
Nalanda University, established in the fifth century CE, was located in the ancient kingdom of Magadha, near the city of Rajagriha (now Rajgir) and close to Patliputra (now Patna). Renowned as the world’s first residential university, Nalanda attracted scholars from around the globe, including Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Tibet, and Southeast Asia.
During the 8th and 9th centuries, under the patronage of the Pala dynasty, Nalanda University flourished, gaining international acclaim. The university offered a diverse range of subjects, including medicine, Ayurveda, mathematics, grammar, astronomy, and Indian philosophy. Its contributions to mathematics and astronomy were particularly notable, with Aryabhata, the Indian mathematician and inventor of zero, being one of its esteemed educators during the 6th century CE.
Rigorous Academic Standards
Admission to Nalanda University was highly competitive, requiring students to undergo rigorous interviews. Those who succeeded were mentored by a group of scholars under the guidance of Buddhist masters like Dharmapala and Silabhadra. The university housed nine million handwritten palm-leaf manuscripts, and its library, known as ‘Dharma Gunj’ or the ‘Mountain of Truth’, was the richest repository of Buddhist knowledge.
Interesting Facts About Nalanda University
– Established in the 5th Century CE: Nalanda University attracted global scholars due to its renowned excellence in various disciplines.
– Dharma Gunj Library: The library, also called ‘Mountain of Truth,’ had over nine million books stored in a nine-story building named Ratnodadhi.
– First Residential University: It was the world’s first residential university, accommodating over 10,000 students and 2000 teachers.
– Great Study Center: Nalanda was a major center for subjects like astronomy, medicine, logic, and mathematics.
– UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 2016, the Nalanda ruins were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing the site’s immense cultural and historical importance.
– Revival Initiative: Former President APJ Abdul Kalam proposed reviving Nalanda University in 2006. The university reopened in 2014 after nearly 800 years, marking a significant milestone in the history of the world’s oldest learning centers. The new campus signifies the revival of Nalanda, blending ancient wisdom with modern knowledge.
– Global Attraction: Nalanda attracted students from all across the world, including Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Tibet, and Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
The new campus of Nalanda University not only signifies the revival of a storied ancient institution but also embodies the principles of modern education and sustainability. Covering over 450 acres, this campus is a testament to the fusion of historical significance and contemporary advancements. The ‘Net Zero’ Green Campus reflects a strong commitment to environmental conservation, setting a new standard for eco-friendly educational facilities. With cutting-edge infrastructure, including 40 classrooms, two large auditoriums, and comprehensive residential facilities, Nalanda University is well-equipped to accommodate a diverse international student body.
Furthermore, the inclusion of an international center, amphitheater, and sports complex underscores its dedication to providing a holistic educational experience. This blend of traditional wisdom and modern innovation positions Nalanda University as a global leader in higher education. The university fosters an environment that values sustainability and academic excellence, attracting scholars worldwide and continuing its historic legacy as a premier center of learning and intellectual growth.
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