Bihar is set to witness the revival of another historic center of learning—Vikramshila University—following the successful resurrection of Nalanda University. The Bihar government, in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has been working to restore the ancient ruins while also planning the establishment of a new central university in the region.
The ancient Vikramshila University, founded in the 8th century by King Dharmapala, was a renowned Buddhist learning center that flourished for nearly four centuries. It specialized in Tantrayana Buddhism, attracting scholars from across Asia. Subjects such as theology, grammar, metaphysics, and occult sciences were taught here, with eminent scholars like Atisa Dipankara contributing to the spread of Buddhism in Tibet. However, like Nalanda, Vikramshila faced decline around the 13th century due to multiple factors, including the rise of Hinduism and invasions by Bakhtiyar Khalji.
Today, ASI is actively engaged in excavation and preservation efforts at Antichak in Bhagalpur, where the university’s ruins—including a grand cruciform brick stupa, monastic cells, and a vast library—are being carefully restored. A museum at the site showcases significant relics, including sculptures of Buddhist and Hindu deities.
In parallel, the Bihar government has allocated 202.14 acres in Antichak for the new Vikramshila University. The project, approved by the Centre in 2015 with a ₹500 crore budget, had stalled due to land acquisition issues but is now gaining momentum. With infrastructural development, including the repair of NH-80 for better connectivity, Bihar aims to reestablish Vikramshila as a global academic hub.
The revival of Vikramshila, alongside Nalanda, symbolizes the restoration of India’s ancient educational heritage, promising a bright future for higher learning in Bihar.
