Which ancient university was the most famous site for the study of Mahayana Buddhism?
Correct Answer: Nalanda
Subject: history
- Takshashila
- Vikramshila
- Nalanda
- Odantipur
Explanation: • Nalanda (Bihar) → Mahayana Buddhism (5th–12th century AD)
• Vikramshila (Bhagalpur, Bihar) → Vajrayana/Tantric Buddhism — founded by Pala king Dharmapala
• Takshashila (modern Taxila, Pakistan) → Vedic sciences, medicine, military arts, statecraft (5th BC–5th AD)
• Odantapuri (Bihar) → smaller Pala-era institution
• Both Nalanda and Vikramshila were destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji (1193–1203 AD)
• Key exam point: 'Mahayana Buddhism' = Nalanda; 'Vajrayana' = Vikramshila