M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1991

Early Sanskrit Buddhist Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Saundarananda was the composition of:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Ashvaghosa was the first to use the sophisticated Sanskrit 'Kavya' style to promote Buddhist doctrine to the intellectual elite of the Kushan Empire.

Explanation Ashvaghosa (1st century CE) authored Saundarananda. The poem narrates the story of Nanda, Buddha’s half-brother, who renounces his wife Sundari to seek enlightenment.

Logical Breakup
Option A is Correct: Ashvaghosa was the spiritual advisor to King Kanishka.
Logic: The work is famous for its transition from sensuous descriptions of romantic love to the austere beauty of Buddhist monasticism.

Active Recall

Question

What is the primary theme of Saundarananda?

Answer

The conversion of the prince Nanda from worldly pleasures to the path of Buddhist dharma.

Core Insight

Ashvaghosa’s brilliance lay in using 'Kama' (desire) as a literary entry point to lead the reader toward 'Moksha' (liberation).