Nava Nalanda Mahavihara

Michele February 27, 2023March 5, 2024

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, located in Nalanda, Bihar, India, is a unique institution dedicated to the study and exploration of Buddhism and ancient Indian knowledge systems. Established in 1951, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in Buddhist studies, Pali language, philosophy, and allied subjects. With a focus on academic excellence, research, and preservation of ancient wisdom, Nava Nalanda Mahavihara provides a platform for students to delve into the rich heritage of Buddhism and contribute to its understanding in the present world.

Overview: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to exploring and preserving the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Indian knowledge systems. The university recognizes the significance of studying the teachings of Lord Buddha and the profound impact they have had on human civilization. With a strong emphasis on academic rigor, research, and cultural preservation, Nava Nalanda Mahavihara prepares students to become knowledgeable scholars, critical thinkers, and ambassadors of peace and harmony.

Founding History: Reviving the Nalanda Tradition

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara has a founding history deeply rooted in the revival of the Nalanda tradition, which was once an eminent center of learning in ancient India. The university was established in 1951 under the visionary leadership of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, and Dr. Radha Krishnan, the second President of India and a renowned philosopher.

The founders of Nava Nalanda Mahavihara aimed to revive the intellectual and spiritual legacy of Nalanda, which was a renowned center of Buddhist learning from the 5th to the 12th century. Inspired by the principles of academic excellence, cultural preservation, and interfaith dialogue, the university strives to provide educational opportunities that preserve and propagate the knowledge systems of ancient India. The establishment of Nava Nalanda Mahavihara represents a commitment to reviving the Nalanda tradition and promoting a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its relevance in contemporary times.

Departments: Exploring the Depths of Buddhist Studies

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara encompasses several departments that cover a wide range of disciplines related to Buddhist studies. Here are some of the prominent departments at the university:

Department of Pali Language and Literature: This department focuses on Pali, the language of the Buddhist scriptures. It offers programs that cover areas such as Pali grammar, translation, literature, and more. It equips students with the skills necessary to study and interpret Buddhist texts.
Department of Buddhist Philosophy and Comparative Religion: This department specializes in Buddhist philosophy and comparative religion, offering programs that cover areas such as Buddhist ethics, metaphysics, logic, comparative religion, and more. It explores the philosophical underpinnings of Buddhism and its relationship with other religious traditions.
Department of Buddhist Studies: This department focuses on various aspects of Buddhist studies, offering programs that cover areas such as Buddhist history, art, archaeology, meditation, and more. It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Buddhist tradition and its cultural manifestations.
Department of Buddhist Psychology and Counselling: This department specializes in Buddhist psychology and counseling, offering programs that cover areas such as mindfulness, mental health, counseling techniques, and more. It explores the application of Buddhist principles in psychology and counseling.
Department of Buddhist Iconography and Art: This department focuses on Buddhist iconography and art, offering programs that cover areas such as Buddhist sculpture, painting, symbolism, and more. It explores the artistic expressions of Buddhism and their significance.
Department of Buddhist Social Work: This department specializes in Buddhist social work, offering programs that cover areas such as social justice, community development, humanitarian work, and more. It explores the application of Buddhist principles in social service and welfare activities.
Department of Buddhist Manuscriptology: This department focuses on Buddhist manuscriptology, offering programs that cover areas such as manuscript preservation, cataloging, digital archiving, and more. It focuses on the preservation and study of Buddhist manuscripts.

These departments reflect Nava Nalanda Mahavihara’s commitment to providing in-depth education and research opportunities in various disciplines related to Buddhist studies.

Courses Offered: Delving into the Depths of Buddhist Knowledge

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that cater to various disciplines in Buddhist studies. Here are some of the notable courses offered at the university:

Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Studies (BA): This program offers undergraduate education in Buddhist studies, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist philosophy, history, literature, and more.
Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (MA): This program offers postgraduate education in Buddhist studies, allowing students to specialize in areas such as Buddhist philosophy, Pali language, art and archaeology, and more.
Master of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies (MPhil): This program offers research-focused education, allowing students to conduct advanced research in specific areas of Buddhist studies. It prepares students for doctoral studies and research positions.
Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) in Buddhist Studies: The Ph.D. program offers research-focused education, allowing students to conduct original research in their chosen field of study. It prepares students for advanced research positions, teaching careers, and leadership roles in academia or cultural institutions.
Diploma and Certificate Courses: The university also offers diploma and certificate courses that provide specialized knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of Buddhist studies. These courses are designed for students who wish to gain specific expertise in areas such as Pali language, meditation, Buddhist art, and more.

These programs reflect Nava Nalanda Mahavihara’s commitment to providing comprehensive education, research opportunities, and preservation of ancient wisdom in the field of Buddhist studies.

Summary: Exploring the Ancient Wisdom

Nava Nalanda Mahavihara stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to exploring and preserving the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Indian knowledge systems. With its focus on academic excellence, research, and cultural preservation, the university prepares students to become knowledgeable scholars, critical thinkers, and ambassadors of peace and harmony.

Through its diverse departments, comprehensive programs, and emphasis on cultural preservation, Nava Nalanda Mahavihara fosters an environment that encourages academic growth, research, and the preservation of ancient wisdom. The university’s dedication to quality education, research, and cultural preservation equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to excel in the field of Buddhist studies and contribute to the understanding and promotion of peace, harmony, and compassion in the world.

As Nava Nalanda Mahavihara continues its journey of exploring the ancient wisdom, it remains a preferred destination for individuals seeking quality education, research opportunities, and cultural immersion. By providing a platform for academic and cultural exploration, the university continues to nurture exceptional scholars, promote interfaith dialogue, and contribute to the preservation and propagation of the profound teachings of Lord Buddha.

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