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Social History of the Gupta Empire

Faxian's Account of the Hospital at Pataliputra

The Chinese monk Faxian recorded the existence of a free public hospital in Pataliputra during the Gupta period. It provided medical care, food, and shelter to patients at no cost, funded by local donations.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VI - Our Pasts I

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In travel through India, Fahien has mentioned a hospital, it was located at-

[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Chinese travelers provided an outsider's validation of the social welfare systems in ancient India, particularly the presence of institutionalized healthcare.

Authentic Source Evidence


Faxian (Fa-Hien), who visited during the reign of Chandragupta II, recorded a large hospital in Pataliputra. He noted it was funded by wealthy citizens and provided free treatment, food, and medicine to the poor and destitute.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: This is one of the earliest records of a charitable public health institution in world history.

  • Logic 2: Pataliputra was described as a prosperous city where people practiced Buddhist values of compassion and charity.

  • Logic 3: Faxian’s observation highlights the sophisticated level of medical and social service during the Gupta 'Golden Age'.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Under whose reign did Faxian visit India?"

    Faxian visited India during the reign of the Gupta emperor Chandragupta II.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The existence of free hospitals suggests that the prosperity of the Gupta era was supported by a robust private-public partnership in social welfare."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Chandragupta II 7Gupta Administration 4
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