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UPPCS Prelims 2012

Buddhist Holy Sites

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following Buddhist sacred place is situated on the Bank of River Niranjana?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The geographical context of the Buddha's life is essential for understanding the pilgrimage sites (Tirthas) of Buddhism.

Explanation Bodhgaya (in Bihar) is located on the banks of the River Niranjana (modern-day Lilajan). It is here that Siddhartha Gautama bathed and then sat under a Pipal tree (Bodhi Tree) to attain supreme enlightenment.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option A is correct. The Niranjana is historically inseparable from the story of the Buddha's enlightenment.
Logic 2: Kushinagar (B) is on the Hiranyavati. Lumbini (C) is near the Rohini. Rishipatan (Sarnath/D) is near the confluence of the Ganga and Varuna.

Active Recall

Question

What is the modern name of the River Niranjana?

Answer

It is currently known as the Lilajan River, which later joins the Mohana to form the Falgu River near Gaya.

Core Insight

The Niranjana River symbolizes the transition from the extreme asceticism Siddhartha practiced in the nearby Uruvela forest to the 'Middle Path' that led to his enlightenment.

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