SHS Trip to Nalanda: Understanding its Archaeological and Historical Background

April 2, 2022

A trip to Nalanda Ruins, Nalanda Museum and surrounding archaeological sites was arranged by the School of Historical Studies. The main aim of the trip was to provide a field training to students on archaeological sites, monuments, formation process, art and architectural details, sculptures and landscape for which they have been instructed in the classrooms.

The first location visited is Mayadevi temple at Rukministhan, near Jagdishpur village of Nalanda. The students were instructed about the archaeological mound, structural remains, stratigraphy, archaeological formation, votive stupas, temple remains. The next location which was visited is the temple of Teliya Bhairav, adjacent to Nalanda ruins. Dr. Pranshu Samdarshi had explained about the religious value and the local legends associated with the Buddha image, enshrined here.

Thereafter, the students were led to the complex of Nalanda excavated remains. The students were instructed at various spots and locations of the Nalanda ruins, including temple site no.3, rear side of temple site no. 3, monastery no. 1B, 1a, monastery no.1, monastery no. 4 and front area of temple site no.12. The students spent greater time in understanding the nature and remains of the structures of monastery, stupas, cells, granary, well, kitchen areas, treasure chambers and their possible usage in the past in addition to the archaeological excavation, conservation, and preservation of these remains.

Afterwards, the students were led to Nalanda Museum of Archaeological Survey of India. Here the students were given explanations on several in-house Buddhist and Brahmanical sculptures, and objects.