The question asks to identify the archaeologist who excavated the Buddhist site of Nalanda University. Nalanda was a renowned ancient center of learning in Bihar, India.

Nalanda University Excavation History

The ruins of the ancient Nalanda University were extensively excavated in the early 20th century by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). These excavations revealed a vast complex of monasteries, temples, and stupas, shedding light on the grand scale and importance of this educational institution.

Among the notable archaeologists involved in these early excavations, Dr. D.B. Spooner played a significant role. His work brought to light many structures and artifacts, helping us understand the layout and life at Nalanda.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the other archaeologists mentioned in the options and their primary contributions to archaeology:

• R.D. Banerjee: Rahkaldas Banerjee is most famous for his discovery of the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, a major site of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Dr. Mackay: Ernest J. H. Mackay was also heavily involved in the excavations of Indus Valley Civilization sites, particularly Mohenjo-daro and Chanhudaro.
• Dr. Stein: Sir Marc Aurel Stein was a pioneering archaeologist known for his explorations and excavations in Central Asia, particularly along the Silk Road, where he discovered numerous ancient sites and manuscripts.
• Dr. Spooner: Dr. D.B. Spooner is credited with leading the major excavations at the ancient site of Nalanda University beginning in the early 20th century (around 1915).

Based on the historical records of archaeological work in India, Dr. Spooner was the key figure associated with the significant excavations at the Nalanda Buddhist site.

Conclusion

The extensive excavations of the Nalanda University Buddhist site in the early 20th century were prominently associated with the work of Dr. Spooner.

Revision Table: Key Archaeologists & Sites

Additional Information: Nalanda University

Nalanda University was one of the world's first great universities and a center of Buddhist and secular learning. It flourished from the 5th to the 12th century CE. It attracted students and scholars from various parts of Asia.

• It was patronized by the Gupta emperors and later rulers like Harsha and the Pala kings.
• The university complex included numerous viharas (monasteries) and temples.
• It was a hub for Mahayana Buddhism but also taught subjects like Vedas, logic, grammar, medicine, and metaphysics.
• The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, recognizing its historical and archaeological significance.
• The excavations at Nalanda helped to reconstruct the history and layout of this important educational institution.