Reviving the Glory of Nalanda University: A Symbol of India’s Soft Power
Nalanda University, an epitome of ancient educational excellence, has been rekindled to its former glory, serving as a beacon of India’s rich cultural heritage and soft power. This venerable institution, which originally thrived between the 5th and 12th centuries CE, has been rejuvenated to foster global knowledge and understanding.
The location of the ancient Nalanda University ruins is not far from the university’s current campus. The Nalanda University Act of 2010 established the institution, which began operations in 2014.
On Wednesday, Nalanda University’s new campus in Rajgir, Bihar, was officially opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, was among the dignitaries in attendance. In his speech, Prime Minister Modi lauded the historic Nalanda University and claimed that the recently established International University will restore India’s soft strength.
At the Rajgir opening ceremony, Foreign Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was accompanied by ambassadors from seventeen different countries.
In reference to the invasion of the historic University by the invaders in the 12th century, he observed, “The emergence of the new Nalanda University shows that books can be burned but not knowledge.” The University’s opulent libraries were destroyed by invaders.
PM Modi stated, “I am happy that I got the opportunity to visit Nalanda within 10 days after swearing in as PM for the 3rd time…Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantra…fire can burn books but it can’t destroy knowledge.”
PM Modi inaugurates the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar.
— BuzzWee (@The_buzzwee) June 20, 2024
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History of Nalanda University
Founded during the Gupta Empire, Nalanda University became one of the world’s first residential universities, attracting scholars from various parts of Asia. It was renowned for its diverse curriculum, including subjects like Buddhist studies, logic, medicine, mathematics, and the arts. The university’s vast library and esteemed faculty, including scholars like Xuanzang, contributed significantly to its illustrious reputation.
Modern Revival and Government Support
The modern Nalanda University, located in Bihar, India, was officially reestablished in 2010 through the Nalanda University Act. The Indian government, recognizing the historical and cultural significance of the ancient institution, has been instrumental in its revival. With substantial support from countries like China, Japan, and Singapore, Nalanda University was inaugurated on September 1, 2014. This initiative aligns with India’s strategy to leverage its soft power by promoting educational and cultural diplomacy.
Courses Offered by Nalanda University
Today, Nalanda University offers a range of postgraduate and doctoral programs, echoing its ancient multidisciplinary approach. Courses in Nalanda University include subjects like:
- Buddhist Studies
- Philosophy
- Historical Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Ecology and Biodiversity
- Sustainable Development
The university also plans to expand its curriculum to include engineering, architecture, and language courses, ensuring a comprehensive educational offering that meets contemporary global needs.
Online and Distance Learning Programs
Acknowledging the advancements in digital education, Nalanda University has embraced online courses and distance learning programs. This initiative allows students worldwide to access the university’s esteemed courses, thus broadening its educational reach and influence.
Research and Publications
Nalanda University continues to contribute to global scholarship through its extensive research programs and publications. The university’s library, reminiscent of its ancient predecessor, boasts a vast collection of books and digital resources. Research at Nalanda encompasses areas like historical studies, sustainable development, and Buddhist philosophy, fostering a vibrant academic community.
Collaborations and International Engagements
In keeping with its historical tradition, Nalanda University has established collaborations with various international institutions. These partnerships facilitate academic exchange, joint research projects, and global conferences, enhancing the university’s role in fostering international cooperation and understanding.
Campus and Architecture
The modern campus of Nalanda University, designed to reflect the architectural grandeur of the ancient institution, is located in Rajgir, Bihar. It incorporates sustainable and eco-friendly designs, blending traditional aesthetics with modern functionality. The campus includes state-of-the-art facilities such as lecture halls, research centers, libraries, and student accommodations.
Future Prospects and Impact
As Nalanda University progresses, it aims to further solidify its position as a global educational hub. By offering innovative courses, promoting research, and facilitating international collaborations, the university continues to enhance India’s soft power on the world stage. Its commitment to knowledge and cultural exchange resonates with the ancient spirit of Nalanda, making it a timeless symbol of learning and enlightenment.
In conclusion, Nalanda University’s revival not only celebrates India’s glorious past but also contributes significantly to its present and future by fostering global education and cultural diplomacy. This esteemed institution stands as a testament to India’s enduring legacy of knowledge and its commitment to shaping a better world through education.
PM Modi watches the ruins of ancient Nalanda University in Bihar.
— BuzzWee (@The_buzzwee) June 20, 2024
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The 2010 Nalanda University Act allowed for the construction of the university, which has a historical connection. The Act made provisions for carrying out the decision to construct the institution that was made at the second East Asia Summit, which took place in the Philippines in 2007.
Major Facilities:
- The campus consists of two academic blocks with forty classrooms that can accommodate about 1900 people in total.
- The campus is a green, “Net Zero” campus.
- It features two auditoriums, each with 300 seats.
- There is a student hostel there that can accommodate about 550 people.
- It also offers a number of other amenities, such as a faculty club, a sports complex, an international center, and an amphitheater that can hold up to 2000 people.
- With 100 acres of water bodies, a solar plant, a drinking and household water treatment facility, a water recycling plant for reusing wastewater, and many other environmentally friendly amenities, it is self-sufficient.
The location of the historic Nalanda ruins is not far from the university’s new campus. In 2014, the recently established institution commenced operations with 14 students in a temporary facility. In 2017, construction on the university began.
17 other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, and Vietnam, are represented at the university in addition to India. These nations have endorsed the university with memorandums of understanding.
International students can apply for 137 scholarships offered by the university. Students from Argentina, Liberia, Myanmar, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Thailand, Turkiye, Uganda, USA, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe are among the foreign students enrolled in the Post Graduate programs for the academic years 2022–24, 2023–25, and the PhD program for 2023–27.
The School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions, Historical Studies, Ecology and Environmental Studies, and Sustainable Development and Management are among the six schools that make up Nalanda University.
