Mauryan Buddhist Institutions

Ashokaram Monastery Location | Pataliputra

The Ashokaram monastery was located in Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), the capital of the Mauryan Empire.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 11 - Ancient India (R.S. Sharma)

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Ashokaram monastery was situated at-

[U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2015]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Emperor Ashoka founded numerous religious structures to support the Sangha, with the capital city Pataliputra being a primary hub.

Authentic Source Evidence


Buddhist chronicles like the Mahavamsa and Dipavamsa mention that the Third Buddhist Council was held at the Ashokaram monastery in Pataliputra.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Pataliputra: As the imperial capital, it hosted the most prominent Mauryan-supported Buddhist institutions, including Ashokaram.

  • Other Sites: While Shravasti and Vaishali were major Buddhist centers, Ashokaram is specifically associated with the Mauryan capital.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What major event took place at the Ashokaram monastery?"

    The Third Buddhist Council, presided over by Moggaliputta Tissa under the patronage of Ashoka, was held here to purify the Sangha.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Ashokaram served as the headquarters of the Sangha in the Mauryan era, illustrating the state's deep integration with Buddhist missionary efforts."

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