NALANDA MAHAVIHARA

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Context: Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy joined the 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2022 celebrations with the people of Bihar at the Nalanda Mahavihara, Nalanda in Bihar

About:

• The ruins of ancient Nalanda Mahavihara (also known as old Nalanda University) of Bihar has been included in the List of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site.
• Nalanda Mahavihara ruins comprise the archaeological remains of monastic-cum-scholastic from the 5th century BC to the 13th century AD.
• It located near Patna, state capital of Bihar and is 26th cultural site of India to get prestigious world heritage status.
• Nalanda Mahavihara was founded by Kumargupta I of the Gupta dynasty in 5th century CE. It was the earliest planned university in the Indian subcontinent.
• It was patronized by various rulers including King Harshavardhana of Kannauj (7th century CE) and the Pala rulers (8th to 12th century CE) as well as various scholars.
• Presently, it is preserved in number of remains of stupas (temple-like structure), shrines and viharas (residential-cum-scholastic structure) and important art works in stucco, stone and metal.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1835941