In which among the following states, 'Odantipur' Education Centre was situated?
60th to 62nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2016
A. Bengal
B. Bihar
C. Gujarat
D. Tamil Nadu
E. None of the above/More than one of the above
Answer: Bihar
Option b is the correct answer.
Odantapuri Education Centre was situated in the state of Bihar. It was a renowned Buddhist center of learning, established in the 7th century CE by Gopala, the first ruler of the Pala dynasty. It later served as a model for Tibetan monasteries and scholars. Gradually it faced decline and was eventually destroyed during the 12th century when Bakhtiyār Khalji invaded Bihar.
Important Tips
Famous Universities of Ancient India:
Odantapuri: Located in Bihar, it was established under the patronage of King Gopala I from the Pala dynasty. Odantapuri was a prominent Buddhist maha vihara or monastery but was tragically destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji.
Vikramshila: Situated in present-day Bhagalpur, Bihar, this university was founded by King Dharmapala of the Pala dynasty. It thrived as a Buddhist study center, emphasizing Vajrayana and Tantric teachings, along with subjects like philosophy, astronomy, law, and more.
Jagaddala: Located in Bengal, it served as a refuge for scholars following the decline of Nalanda and Vikramshila. King Ramapala of the Pala dynasty is credited with its founding, and it was a hub for Vajrayana Buddhism.
Valabhi: Situated in Gujarat's Saurashtra region, Valabhi was a significant center for Hinayana Buddhism. It covered a wide array of subjects, including administration, philosophy, and statecraft.
Takshashila: Believed to have existed in present-day Pakistan since the 5th century BC, it was renowned for Chanakya's Arthashastra and teachings in Buddhism and Hinduism.Subjects encompassed politics, medicine, law, military tactics, and more.
Manyakheta (Malkhed): Located in Karnataka, it gained prominence under the Rashtrakuta dynasty, hosting scholars from various religious backgrounds.
Pushpagiri Vihara and Lalitagiri (Odisha): Founded by Kalinga rulers, Pushpagiri was primarily a Buddhist study center in the 3rd century AD.
Sharada Peeth: Present in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, it was known for Sanskrit manuscripts and was significant for Sanskrit academics.
Nagarjunakonda: Situated in Andhra Pradesh, it was a renowned Buddhist center, attracting scholars from Sri Lanka, China, and beyond.