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UPSC CSE Prelims 2004

History and Spread of Jainism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to ancient Jainism, which one of the following statements is correct?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept The history of Jainism is marked by its spread to Southern and Eastern India and its eventual sectarian division.

Explanation The Hathigumpha inscription confirms that King Kharavela of Kalinga was a devout Jain. Bhadrabahu led the migration to South India (Karnataka), not Sthulabhadra.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option C is correct. Kharavela's inscriptions show he was a champion of Jainism and even brought back a Jain idol taken by the Nandas.
Logic 2: Option A is incorrect; Bhadrabahu led the Southern migration. Option B is incorrect; Bhadrabahu's followers became 'Digambaras' (sky-clad). Option D is incorrect; initially, both Jainism and Buddhism were aniconic (didn't worship images).

Active Recall

Question

Why did the Jain community split into two sects?

Answer

The split occurred due to a famine in Magadha; one group migrated south (Digambaras), while those who stayed (Shvetambaras) adopted white robes and modified their rules.

Core Insight

King Kharavela represents the peak of Jain influence in Eastern India, proving that the religion had powerful state support outside its heartland.

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