Nalanda, initially a monastic institution during the time of Buddha, became Asia's greatest academic and spiritual center in early medieval times. This growth reflects the evolution of Buddhism, moving from the early monastic order's native realism to the advanced metaphysics of Prajnaparamita and Yogacara philosophies, which significantly expanded human thought.\n\nNalanda also pioneered a new school of art. Early Indian art developed in six key centers: Gandhara, Mathura, Sanchi, Sarnath, Ajanta, and Amaravati. The Gandhara school combined elements of Etruscan and Greco-Roman art, influencing Christian art in Italy. Similarly, other centers developed unique styles. Nalanda's art, purely Indian in conception, traces its origins to the sculptures of Sarnath and Mathura but developed its own unique identity and historical significance.