Ancient History : Jainism And Buddhism

Q 28 / 33

UPSC CSE Prelims 2001

Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of Kanishka at Kashmir?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option (D)

Vasumitra

The Fourth Buddhist Council was convened during the reign of Emperor Kanishka in the 1st century CE. It was held at Kundalvana in Kashmir. This council was presided over by Vasumitra, with Ashvaghosha serving as his deputy. A primary outcome of this council was the compilation of commentaries on the Tripitaka and the formal recognition and promotion of Mahayana Buddhism.

Incorrect Options

  • Parsva: Parsva was a revered Buddhist monk, but he did not preside over the Fourth Buddhist Council.
  • Nagarjuna: Nagarjuna was a highly influential Buddhist philosopher and founder of the Madhyamaka school of Mahayana Buddhism. While a contemporary figure, he did not preside over the Fourth Buddhist Council.
  • Sudraka: Sudraka was a celebrated Sanskrit dramatist and is not associated with presiding over any Buddhist councils.
SOURCEAncient India by R.S. Sharma, Chapter 13: The Age of the Kushans