Nalanda University, one of the oldest and most renowned centers of learning in ancient India, was indeed destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji. Here is a detailed explanation of the events surrounding the destruction of Nalanda University:

Introduction
Nalanda University, located in present-day Bihar, India, was established in the 5th century CE during the Gupta Empire. It flourished as a center of learning, attracting students and scholars from all over the world for several centuries. However, the university faced its downfall in the 12th century CE.

Bakhtiyar Khilji and his invasion
- Bakhtiyar Khilji was a Turkish military general who served under the Delhi Sultanate, a Muslim empire in the Indian subcontinent.
- In 1193 CE, Bakhtiyar Khilji led an invasion into the Indian subcontinent, particularly targeting the regions of Bihar and Bengal.
- His primary objective was to establish Muslim dominance and expand the territory of the Delhi Sultanate.
- Bakhtiyar Khilji's invasion resulted in the conquest of numerous cities, including the renowned educational center of Nalanda.

Destruction of Nalanda University
- When Bakhtiyar Khilji arrived at Nalanda, he encountered a thriving center of knowledge with numerous temples, monasteries, and libraries.
- The university housed thousands of students and scholars who engaged in intellectual pursuits, including the study of various disciplines like astronomy, mathematics, medicine, philosophy, and Buddhism.
- According to historical accounts, Bakhtiyar Khilji and his forces set fire to the buildings, resulting in the destruction of the university.
- The extensive collection of ancient manuscripts and books housed in the libraries were also burned, leading to an irreparable loss of knowledge.

Impact and aftermath
- The destruction of Nalanda University by Bakhtiyar Khilji was a significant blow to the intellectual and cultural heritage of India.
- It marked the decline of Buddhism in the region and the subsequent rise of Islamic influence.
- The loss of ancient texts and knowledge stored in Nalanda's libraries was a severe setback for the preservation of Indian intellectual traditions.
- Nalanda University never fully recovered from this devastating event, and its decline continued over the centuries until it eventually faded into obscurity.

In conclusion, Bakhtiyar Khilji was responsible for the destruction of Nalanda University. His invasion in the 12th century CE resulted in the burning of the university's buildings and the loss of its invaluable collection of ancient manuscripts. This event had a lasting impact on the intellectual and cultural heritage of India.