[Solved] Vikramshila: The Buddhist Center of Learning

Buddhist centre of learning is-

[MPPCS (Pre) 2004]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

During the early medieval period, the Pala kings founded major 'Mahaviharas' (monastic universities) that preserved Vajrayana and Mahayana traditions.

Authentic Source Evidence

Vikramshila (Bhagalpur district, Bihar) was founded by the Pala King Dharmapala in the late 8th century. It became a global center for Buddhist studies, especially Tantric Buddhism.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Vikramshila was one of the five most important Buddhist universities in India.

Logic 2: Varanasi and Ujjain were primary centers for Brahmanical/Sanskritic learning, not Buddhist specialized learning.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Which specific branch of Buddhism was Vikramshila most famous for?"

It was the premier center for the study of Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhism.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Vikramshila carried the torch of Buddhist scholarship after Nalanda's peak, serving as a vital link between Indian Buddhism and Tibet."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Pala Dynasty 9 Dharmapala 5 Vajrayana Buddhism 4