Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which form of Buddhism was prominent during the Sultanate period?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
In the centuries preceding and during the early Sultanate, Buddhism in India had largely evolved into a complex system of rituals and esoteric practices known as Tantric or Vajrayana Buddhism.Explanation
Historical analysis shows that Vajrayana (The Diamond Vehicle) was the dominant form of Buddhism in the major universities like Nalanda and Vikramshila, which were the final strongholds of the faith during the initial Turkish invasions.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option C is correct. It focused on the use of 'Mantra', 'Mandala', and 'Mudra' to achieve enlightenment.
Logic 2: This form of Buddhism was highly prominent in Eastern India (Bengal and Bihar) under the Palas just before the Delhi Sultanate established control over the region.