Ancient History : Post Mauryan: Sungas And Kanwas

Q 5 / 5

UPSC CSE Prelims 1998

Many of the Greeks, Kushanas and Shakas embraced Buddhism rather than Hinduism because:

EXPLANATION

The correct option is Buddhism provided easier access to Indian society.

Explanation

Foreign groups such as the Greeks, Kushanas, and Shakas integrated into Indian society during ancient times, and religious affiliation played a significant role in this process.

  • Buddhism was in the ascendant at that time:
    Although Buddhism had considerable influence, its popularity alone does not fully explain why these groups adopted it.
  • They had renounced the policy of war and violence:
    These groups continued to engage in warfare and political expansion, so this was not a determining factor for adopting Buddhism.
  • Caste-ridden Hinduism did not attract them:
    While the rigid social structure of caste may have posed challenges, this is not the primary reason highlighted in historical interpretation.
  • Buddhism provided easier access to Indian society:
    Buddhism was relatively more open and less rigid in social structure, lacking strict caste barriers. This facilitated the assimilation of foreign groups into Indian society, making it an attractive choice.

Key Takeaway: Buddhism’s relatively open and less rigid social framework enabled foreign groups to integrate more easily into Indian society.

SOURCENCERT Class 11 History Chapter 14: Central Asian Contacts and Brahmanical Reaction