Vikram Shila

About Vikram Shila

Vikramashila, often referred to as Vikram Shila, was one of the two most important centers of Buddhist learning in India during the Pala Empire, alongside Nalanda. Located in Bhagalpur district of Bihar, this ancient university flourished for about four centuries from the late 8th to the early 12th century. It was established by King Dharmapala and became a prominent hub for Tantric Buddhism. The ruins of the university, though not as extensive as Nalanda, still offer a glimpse into its glorious past, featuring a large monastic complex, stupas, libraries, and student cells. Excavations have unearthed terracotta sculptures, bronze images, and other artifacts, showcasing the sophisticated artistry and intellectual environment that once thrived here. Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-grand institution, reflecting on its significant contribution to Buddhist philosophy and education.

History

Vikramashila was founded by the Pala king Dharmapala (783 to 820 AD) in the late 8th or early 9th century, as a response to a perceived decline in the quality of education at Nalanda. It rapidly grew into a flourishing center for Vajrayana (Tantric) Buddhism, attracting scholars and students from across Asia. The university comprised residences for over a hundred professors and about a thousand monks, alongside numerous monastic cells and a grand central stupa. It played a crucial role in the propagation of Buddhism, especially in Tibet, with many distinguished scholars like Atisha Dipankara Srijnana, who later became a key figure in Tibetan Buddhism, having studied or taught here. The university was extensively patronized by the Pala rulers, reaching its zenith during their reign. However, like many other Buddhist institutions in northern India, Vikramashila met its demise around 1193 AD when it was destroyed by the invading forces of Muhammad bin Bakhtiyar Khalji, marking a significant loss for Buddhist scholarship and culture in India.