• UGI USER
  • Jul 18, 2024
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“REVIVING NALANDA: ANCIENT GLORY TO MODERN ASPIRATIONS”

Why in the news?

“Nalanda University’s new campus inaugurated, aiming to restore its historic educational prominence and revive its ancient legacy.”

source:midrise

About Nalanda’s Ancient Glory:

  • Established: by Emperor Kumaragupta I of the Gupta Dynasty around 427 AD.
  • Renowned Buddhist site, rediscovered in the 19th century.
  • Hosted eminent scholars like Aryabhata, Harsha, Dharmapala, and Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang.
About the Revival of Nalanda University:

Inception and Advocacy:

  • Idea emerged in the early 2000s.
  • Advocated by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Singapore, and EAS leaders.

Establishment:

  • Nalanda University Act passed in 2010.
  • 455-acre site provided by Bihar government.
  • Eco-friendly campus designed by architect B.V. Doshi.
  • Academics and Sustainability:
  • Postgraduate programs in various fields.
  • Net Zero Green Campus with sustainable facilities.
  • Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

About UNESCO’s Heritage sites related to Buddhism:

UNESCO Heritage Sites:

  • Nalanda Mahavihara, Bihar
  • Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, MP
  • Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya, Bihar
  • Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Intangible Cultural Heritage:

  • Buddhist chanting of Ladakh (2012)