41ˢᵗ B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1996
Out of two statements below first is Assertion(A) and second is Reason (R), carefully read both statements. Assertion (A) : Till the end of the twelfth century Nalanda Mahavihara lost its glory. Reason (R) : State protection ceased to be available to the Mahavihara. With respect to the above-mentioned two statements, which of the following is true?
a(A) and (R) both are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
b(A) and (R) both are true, and (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).✓ Correct
c(A) is true, but (R) is false.
d(A) is false, but (R) is true.
Explanation
Nalanda was a renowned Buddhist centre and university. It was located near Rajgir (ancient name: Rajgriha) in southern Bihar. The university at Nalanda came into existence in the mid-5th century during the time of the Gupta rulers. In the last decade of the 12ᵗ century, as a result of Muslim invasions, this Mahavihara declined. Also, because the Pala rulers of Bengal patronised Vikramashila University, the importance of Nalanda began to diminish.
ancient-history