UPSC Prelims 2023 · Question 1 of 97
UPSC Prelims 2023 question on Dhanyakataka Buddhist Centre
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2023
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectAncient History
- TopicMauryan Age
- DifficultyMedium
- TypeDirect
In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka, which flourished as a prominent Buddhist centre under the Mahasanghikas, located?
Show answer
Answer: A. Andhra
Verdict
Correct answer: Andhra → Option (a).
Analysis
Dhanyakataka was located in Andhra Pradesh. The famous Buddhist sites of Amaravati and Dhanyakataka are associated with Buddha, as a birthplace of one of his previous Buddhas and a preaching site of Buddha respectively.
Amaravati and Dharanikota, both formed part of ancient Dhanyakataka, the capital of later Satavahanas.
With the spread of Buddhism, the Dhanyakataka (Amaravati) region became the most important stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism whereas the Sthaviravadins were popular in the north.