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U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2015

Mauryan Buddhist Institutions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Ashokaram monastery was situated at-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Emperor Ashoka founded numerous religious structures to support the Sangha, with the capital city Pataliputra being a primary hub.

Explanation Buddhist chronicles like the Mahavamsa and Dipavamsa mention that the Third Buddhist Council was held at the Ashokaram monastery in Pataliputra.

Logical Breakup
Pataliputra: As the imperial capital, it hosted the most prominent Mauryan-supported Buddhist institutions, including Ashokaram.
Other Sites: While Shravasti and Vaishali were major Buddhist centers, Ashokaram is specifically associated with the Mauryan capital.

Active Recall

Question

What major event took place at the Ashokaram monastery?

Answer

The Third Buddhist Council, presided over by Moggaliputta Tissa under the patronage of Ashoka, was held here to purify the Sangha.

Core Insight

Ashokaram served as the headquarters of the Sangha in the Mauryan era, illustrating the state's deep integration with Buddhist missionary efforts.

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