The University of Nalanda c13.170

c13.170

The second reason is that, unlike Takṣaśilā and other Universities which were famed for their specialisation in medicine and other sciences, Nālandā imparted knowledge in all the heterogeneous arts and sciences, philosophies and religions.¹ If Buddhism was specially attended to, Vedāntism, etc., were not neglected. Likewise, place was made even for Cikitsāvidyā (science of medicine) in the curriculum. Thus, at Nālandā a student could learn whatever he wanted to learn. Whereas, in other institutions, if a student was dissatisfied with his subject, he had either to leave it along with the institution or continue the study of it against his will, Nālandā gave him an opportunity to change the subject by remaining at the same place. An institution, which looked after the needs of all the students must become popular and there is no wonder if Nālandā was the most popular among all other sister institutions.