Takshashila: The world’s first known university
At least 2,800 years ago, circa 800BCE, there existed a giant University at Takshashila (often called Taxila), a town located in the north-western region of India (in today’s Pakistan). According to references in the Ramayana, King Bharata founded the town in the name of his son, Taksha.
The site initially began to develop as a loosely connected group of buildings where learned persons resided, worked and taught. Over the years, additional buildings were added; rulers made donations and more scholars migrated there. Gradually a large campus developed, which became a celebrated seat of learning in the ancient world.
September 27th, 2006 at 11:05 am
It is with Hindu pride that I read the article on Takshashila. Many people who does not know about Hinduism think that Hiduism is a religion that encourages multi god and Idol worship.They do not know why things are done in certain ways in Hinduism.This aricle will go a long way in clearing certain doubts about our religion. It shows how and why hinduism encouraged search of knowledge and the ultimate knowledge or truth is Thathvamasi or truth. I dont think that any other religion has contributed for this than Hinduism.
October 3rd, 2006 at 8:58 am
I read a long time ago the standard graduation citation which even today is effective. In fact, it only talks of universality and urging the graduates to pursue selflessness. It is one more aspect of Sanathana Dharma which the world can learn from and adopt.
I have lost that that. It would be good if you could add that to the above article & e-mail me a copy.
HARIAUM TAT SAT.
October 9th, 2006 at 8:44 pm
All people seek the truth. The community serves to seek the truth. But some find a candle and stop to see the beauty of light. Others find the sun and stop. Still others go beyond. Only a few have had the courage to go beyond so i respect the light that all seek.
hariaum
October 16th, 2006 at 4:40 pm
It is claimed that Jesus, son of Mary studied at this university in a book by by a German writer.
October 21st, 2006 at 9:43 pm
This is a long awaited website. We have all read a great deal about the existance of Takshashila in our history books and scriptures. It is time this was put on the world map of oldest places of learning. This will turn the present incorrect human history towards the truth. Every effort should be made, by means of excavations, to restore the name of Takshashila. I write this as a common man of Indian origin, living abroad but thinking of my roots.