Question

The buildings at Nālandā library were called-
(A) Ratnakirti
(B) Ratnasāgara
(C) Ratnarañjaka
(D) Ratnodadhi
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D)
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Hint:

For questions on ancient Indian history and institutions like Nālandā, remember key names and their associations. Differentiating between names of places, people, and texts is crucial. The prefix 'Ratna' (jewel) is a strong clue for the library buildings at Nālandā.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Objective: Identify the constituent buildings of the ancient Nālandā Mahāvihāra (University) library.
Step 2: Analysis: The Nālandā library was named Dharma Gunj (Mountain of Truth). Historical records, notably from Tibetan sources like Taranatha, indicate it comprised three large, multi-storied structures. These were:


Ratnasāgara (Ocean of Jewels)

Ratnodadhi (Sea of Jewels)

Ratnarañjaka (Jewel-adorned)

These align with options (B), (D), and (C). Option (A), Ratnakirti, refers to a Buddhist scholar associated with Vikramaśīla University, not a Nālandā library building.
Step 3: Conclusion: The Nālandā library buildings were Ratnasāgara, Ratnarañjaka, and Ratnodadhi. The correct selection comprises options (B), (C), and (D).