Question

Write a short note on Nalanda.

Answer 1

Nalanda was a centre of learning when Xuan Zang, the Chinese pilgrim visited India.
He and other pilgrims spent time studying in Nalanda (Bihar). He described it as:
(1) The teachers of Nalanda were men of the highest ability and talent. They followed the teaching of the Buddha strictly.
(2) The rules of the monastery were strict, and everyone had to follow them.
(3) Discussions are held throughout the day. The old and the young mutually helped one another.
(4) Learned men from different cities came here to settle their doubts.
(5) The gate keeper asked new entrants difficult questions. They are allowed to enter only after answering those questions. Seven to eight out of every ten are not able to answer.