An Observation on Learning and Libraries in Ancient India

Abstract

One of the oldest civilizations of the world India has a kaleidoscopic variety of people and a rich cultural heritage. Excellency reached in most of the branches of knowledge in ancient India, great religious systems was created and developed independent schools of philosophy. Literature and learning flourished undoubtedly since the remote past and the history of our cultural heritage extends far back. Education was a lifelong process in ancient India. Knowledge was regarded to be the best eye of man. The ancient Indian tradition lays great importance on activating the spirit in man to enrich the profession and illumine and educate the whole community. Thus, India attracted the attention of the East as an important centre of knowledge and wisdom. Culture, civilisation and society were very much reflected by education in ancient India. Regarding the discussion on education system in ancient India, two factors were most significant. Such as, system of learning and another was libraries. Generally, the term learning is described as the modification of behaviour through experience and knowledge and another component library is the most essential issue regarding learning. Indian history clearly demonstrates that libraries were closely associated with the contemporary education system. In this paper the authors intend to analyse the learning and libraries attached to important centres of education in eastern and central India like Nalanda, Odantipura, Vikramsila, Somapuri, Jagaddal, Mithila, Nadia.