UPSC CSE Prelims 1997

Buddhist Deities

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In the Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was also known as:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept In Mahayana Buddhism, celestial Bodhisattvas embody specific divine attributes. Avalokitesvara is the primary personification of Karuna (infinite compassion).

Explanation 'Padmapani' literally means 'Lotus-in-hand'. Famous depictions, like Cave 1 at Ajanta, show Avalokitesvara holding a blue lotus, symbolizing purity emerging from the mud of the material world.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option C is correct. Padmapani is the most common epithet and iconographic form of Avalokitesvara in India.
Logic 2: Vajrapani (A) holds the thunderbolt (Strength). Manjusri (B) holds a sword and book (Wisdom). Maitreya (D) is the future Buddha.

Active Recall

Question

What does the lotus symbolize in Padmapani's hand?

Answer

It symbolizes spiritual awakening and purity remaining untouched by the world's suffering, similar to a lotus rising clean from murky water.

Core Insight

Avalokitesvara's popularity grew because he was seen as a savior deity who actively intervenes in the world to help those in distress.