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Ancient and Early Medieval Education

Vikramshila University Founder: Dharmapala | Pala Dynasty

Dharmapala, a ruler of the Pala dynasty, founded Vikramshila University in Bihar. It served as a major center for Buddhist learning until its destruction in 1203 CE.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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Which ruler of Bengal founded the ancient University called 'Vikramshila'?

[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2011]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Pala dynasty of Bengal and Bihar was a major patron of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, establishing several monastic universities (Mahaviharas) to revive Buddhist scholarship.

Authentic Source Evidence


Dharmapala (reigned c. 783–820 CE) founded Vikramshila University in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. It was established as a premier institution to complement and improve upon the educational standards of Nalanda.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Dharmapala was a great patron of Buddhism. He established the university on a hill on the bank of the Ganges.

  • Logic 2: The university specialized in Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana), Logic, Vedas, Astronomy, and Law.

  • Logic 3: Its destruction occurred around 1203 CE during the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khalji, marking the end of organized Buddhist education in India.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Why did Dharmapala establish Vikramshila when Nalanda already existed?"

    It was established due to a perceived decline in the quality of education at Nalanda, aiming to create a more rigorous center for Buddhist scholarship.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Vikramshila's scholars were instrumental in the second diffusion of Buddhism in Tibet, highlighting the university's international influence."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Nalanda University 2Vajrayana Buddhism 4Bakhtiyar Khalji 4
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