Valabhi - Ancient university of india

Valabhi University is another Center of education in ancient India. It works as a testimony to India's rich culture and academic history. The university is well known for endorsing the cause of Hinayana Buddhism from the year 600 CE to 1200 CE.

There are speculations that Valabhi was considered a rival of Nalanda University. The ancient university was situated in the capital of Maitraka. The place was also a prominent sight of trade-in Saurashtra, which is the present-day Vallabhipur District in Gujarat.

According to Xuanzang's trip, there were hundreds of hermitages for lodging. And also more than six thousand monks as students living there in the 7th century.

The wealthy and well-off citizens of the city supported and financed the University. The kings of Maitraka were the rulers of the country at that time. They were a very big support for Valabhi University. They contributed huge amounts of donations as well as helped in furnishing the libraries of the ancient education center.

Some available subjects are political science, business, farming, Administration, Law, economics, and accountancy. Buddhism did play a big role in the academics of the University. Though it wasn't exclusive, Brahmanical sciences were also taught here. 

Besides, The degree of Valabhi was very valuable. As a result, the king hired many graduates for administrative and political assistance. 

The university was very widespread in the whole northern part of India. Tales like Kathasaritasagara and the words of Xuanzang seem to emphasize how it was a better university compared to that of Nalanda. 

Unfortunately, this university too had to see an end as the Arabs attacked. They took control over the region in 757 CE. Even with constant trials by  Maitrakas, the University was abandoned in the 12th century.