UPSC Prelims 2001 · General Studies
Question 41: History and Culture
Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of Kanishka at Kashmir?
AnswerThe answer is (d).
Vasumitra presided over the Fourth Buddhist Council, held during Kanishka's reign at Kundalvana in Kashmir, with Ashvaghosha as his deputy. The Council is linked with commentaries on the Buddhist canon and the rise of Mahayana. Nagarjuna was a Mahayana philosopher of the Madhyamika school, and Parsva was a monk linked with persuading Kanishka to call the Council.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Parsva was a monk linked with advising Kanishka, but did not preside.
- (b) Nagarjuna was a Mahayana philosopher, not the president.
- (c) Sudraka is known as a dramatist, not as a Buddhist council's president.
- (d) Right: Vasumitra presided.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2001, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.