A Beacon of Learning in the Ancient World
How it Changed the World." The event celebrated the legacy of Nalanda, an ancient Indian university that served as a beacon of learning for centuries.
Caroline Baylon, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Reading, praised Abhay K.'s book for its significant contribution to our understanding of Nalanda. She highlighted how the book showcases Nalanda's intellectual brilliance, its interdisciplinary approach to learning, and its role in illuminating Asia for centuries.
Baylon emphasized the book's portrayal of scholars who journeyed vast distances to Nalanda, driven by their thirst for knowledge and exchange of ideas. She also commended Abhay K.'s connection of Nalanda's historical achievements to contemporary educational challenges, illustrating how the university's interdisciplinary approach fostered innovation and critical thinking.
She further noted the book's exploration of Nalanda's knowledge networks, demonstrating the universal aspiration for learning that transcends cultures and centuries. Baylon also appreciated the book's depiction of Nalanda's open debates and rigorous examination of ideas, which created a culture of continuous refinement and advancement of knowledge.
In his discussion with writer and translator Dhanya Madhavan Nair, Abhay K. highlighted Nalanda's key contributions to the modern world. These include the concept of zero, algebra and algorithm, the Dharma Wheel, philosophies of Shunyata, Yogachara and Vajrayana, poetic forms such as Doha and Chaupai, and Hatha Yoga. He emphasized the continued relevance of these contributions in today's world.
Abhay K. also discussed the importance of Sariputra, whose stupa served as the nucleus for Nalanda Mahavihara's growth, and the philosopher Nagarjuna, who laid the philosophical foundation of the university.
Alison Barret, Country Director of the British Council, expressed gratitude to Abhay K. for writing the book and sharing India's incredible contribution to global learning through Nalanda's interdisciplinary approach. She also thanked Dhanya Madhavan Nair for moderating the insightful discussion.
7 Comments
Matzomaster
The book's exploration of Nalanda's knowledge networks demonstrates the universal human desire for learning and understanding.
Karamba
The book's focus on Nalanda's "intellectual brilliance" seems elitist and disregards the diverse forms of knowledge and learning that existed outside its walls.
Rotfront
The book's celebration of Nalanda risks perpetuating a romanticized view of the past that hinders our ability to learn from historical mistakes and build a more equitable and just future.
ArtemK
The book seems to romanticize Nalanda without acknowledging the power dynamics and inequalities that existed within the institution.
Loubianka
This event is a valuable opportunity to learn about Nalanda's rich history and its contributions to global learning.
Comandante
Nalanda's commitment to open debate and rigorous examination of ideas serves as a model for fostering critical thinking and intellectual growth.
Sammmm
Focusing solely on the positive aspects of Nalanda ignores the potential lessons we can learn from its downfall and the factors that contributed to its demise.