Vikramashila was a renowned centre of

Correct option is C

Tantric Buddhism

Vikramashila was one of the two most important centers of Buddhist learning in India during the Pala Empire, along with Nalanda. It was established by King Dharmapala (783 to 820 AD) in the late 8th or early 9th century in present-day Bhagalpur district, Bihar, India.

While various subjects were taught at Vikramashila, its primary fame and specialization lay in Tantric Buddhism (Vajrayana Buddhism). The monastery became a prominent center for the study, practice, and dissemination of Tantric Buddhist doctrines and rituals. Many renowned scholars and Siddhas (accomplished practitioners of Tantric Buddhism) were associated with Vikramashila, and it played a crucial role in the propagation of Buddhism, especially Tantric forms, to Tibet.

The curriculum at Vikramashila included a wide range of subjects, such as logic, grammar, metaphysics, philosophy, astronomy, and law, in addition to Buddhist scriptures. However, its distinct identity and contribution to the intellectual and spiritual landscape of the time were largely due to its focus on Tantric studies.

Therefore, the most accurate answer is that Vikramashila was a renowned centre of Tantric Buddhism.

Let's briefly consider why the other options are less accurate:

1. Physical education: While ancient Indian education systems often included physical training, Vikramashila's primary renown was not for physical education.
2. Pictorial art: Though Buddhist monasteries were often centers of art, including painting and sculpture, Vikramashila was not predominantly known as a center specifically for "pictorial art" in the way it was for Tantric Buddhism.
4. Culinary art: This is entirely unrelated to the known functions of ancient Buddhist monastic universities.