Kingdoms associated with the life of the Buddha — UPSC Prelims PYQ...

Which of the following Kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?

Avanti
Gandhara
Kosala
Magadha

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1, 2 and 3
2 and 4
3 and 4 only
1, 3 and 4

Explanation

Kingdoms Kosala and Magadha are associated with the life of buddha

Buddha was born in 563 BCE in Lumbini. His father, King Śuddhodana, was the leader of the Shakya clan, which was part of the Kosala kingdom.
- Pasenadi (also known as Prasenajit) was an immensely popular ruler of Kosala, and a contemporary of the Buddha.
- Kosala today can be identified with the areas of Lucknow, Gonda, Faizabad, Baharaich of Uttar Pradesh
Magadha was a significant kingdom in the Buddha’s time. The Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya (Magadha) and delivered many sermons in this region, including Rajgir.

Avanti and Gandhara are not associated with life of buddha

Though Avanti was a contemporaneous kingdom, it was not directly associated with significant events in the Buddha’s life. Gandhara, located in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan, was culturally important in later Buddhist history (especially during the spread of Mahayana Buddhism) but was not associated with Buddha’s life directly.

Infographic illustrating Buddhism's origins, key teachings, councils, and spread across Asia. Features map of India with labeled significant locations, symbols like Lotus and Wheel, timeline of four Buddhist councils with rulers' portraits, and regions influenced by Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism highlighted.