Which ancient Indian university was a major centre of Buddhist learning before the establishment of Nalanda?
Takshashila (Taxila) was one of the earliest major centres of higher learning in ancient India and an important centre of Buddhist education before Nalanda became prominent.
Located in present-day Pakistan, near Rawalpindi, Takshashila flourished from around the 6th century BCE. It attracted students and scholars from different parts of the Indian subcontinent and neighbouring regions. It was known for teaching subjects such as medicine, philosophy, grammar, politics, military science, mathematics and religious studies.
Takshashila was also closely associated with the development and spread of Buddhist traditions. Several Buddhist monasteries, stupas and learning establishments were built in the region, making it an important centre of Buddhist scholarship.
Unlike modern universities, Takshashila did not operate as a single centralised institution. Instead, it consisted of different teachers and educational establishments where students studied under renowned scholars.
Therefore, Takshashila is regarded as one of the earliest renowned centres of higher education in the Indian subcontinent and an important predecessor to later learning centres such as Nalanda.
