An Archetype of the Buddhist Academic Culture: Nālandā Mahāvihāra

Abstract

There is a growing consensus in a contemporary multi-cultural society that religious matters are a personal choice and should be dealt with the values of co-existence. The upsurge in Buddhist oriented flexibility and religious plurality has reinforced awareness about inculcating harmonious ideas. It highlights the significant role Buddhism has to play in facilitating intercultural dialogue for the protection and advancement of kindness and concord. Besides, consultations with different religious communities could be done to exchange ideas on common concerns such as education, health, peace, and human rights. Not to participate in negotiation and talks is the prelude to developing a stereotypical insight of the other religions and cultures, which further generates a climate of mutual misgiving, strain, and anxiety and usually fosters intolerance and discernment.