Unveiling the Ancient Wisdom, Nalanda Ruins

 

Unveiling the Ancient Wisdom: A Journey to the Ruins of Nalanda #Nalanda #AncientIndia #HistoricalTravel

Standing amidst the serene ruins of Nalanda in Bihar, India, I couldn't help but be captivated by the whispers of the past. It's a place that transcends being just a historical site; it's a testament to the enduring power of knowledge.

Nalanda wasn't just any ancient city; it was a renowned Buddhist Mahavihara (a great monastic university) that flourished during the ancient and medieval period in Magadha. Considered one of the greatest centers of learning in the ancient world, it thrived near Rajgir, about 90 kilometers southwest of Patna.

Imagine a bustling university established in the 5th century BC! Nalanda boasted an international reputation, attracting students from all corners of the globe. Here, they delved into diverse subjects like Vedas, logic, grammar, medicine, metaphysics, and even rhetoric.

Sadly, the 12th century saw the destruction of this intellectual haven by the invader Bakhtiyar Khilji. The brutal act included the demolition of the monastery, killing of monks, and the burning of the invaluable library. It's said the fire raged for months, devouring millions of priceless manuscripts.

Nalanda, however, is much more than its tragic end. Its legacy lives on, not only as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also as a symbol of the pursuit of knowledge. The ruins themselves stand as a testament to its grandeur. Stupas, shrines, and viharas (residential and educational buildings) speak volumes about the architectural brilliance of the era.

Interestingly, the origins of Nalanda might lie in the Sanskrit word "Na+alam+da" (giver of knowledge), further solidifying its association with wisdom. Founded centuries before Oxford University, Nalanda housed an astonishing 9 million manuscripts and attracted a staggering 10,000 students from across the globe.

In recent times, Nalanda has seen a surge in popularity thanks to a song from the iconic Bollywood film "Johny Mera Naam," starring the legendary Devanand and Hema Malini. This has brought the ruins back into the spotlight, attracting visitors eager to walk where these stars once stood.

Planning your own pilgrimage to Nalanda? Budget-friendly accommodations are readily available in Rajgir or Bihar Sharif, both within easy reach. Public transportation options like taxis and buses are available, although train services are less frequent. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining a tour package offered by the tourism department, which often combine visits to Nalanda, Pawapuri, and Rajgir into a day trip.

So, if you're ever in Bihar, don't miss the chance to explore the ruins of Nalanda. It's a journey that will not only transport you back in time but also ignite a spark of curiosity about the vast reservoir of knowledge that once thrived there.

Pictures of Nalanda ruins,

 

Text and Photos by- Ashok Karan,

Ashokkaran.blogspot.com,

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