Buddhist Chronology

Who attained Enlightenment in Bodh Gaya?

Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, Bihar, under a Bodhi tree after years of meditation.

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

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Who attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya?

[67th BPSC (Pre) 2022]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Identifying the key life-cycle sites (Birth, Enlightenment, Sermon, Death) of ancient teachers is a core component of Indian history.

Authentic Source Evidence


Siddhartha Gautama attained supreme enlightenment (Nirvana) at the age of 35 under a Pipal tree in Bodh Gaya, becoming the Buddha.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Gautama Buddha (B): The central figure associated with Bodh Gaya.

  • Mahavira Swami (A): Attained Kaivalya (enlightenment) at Jrimbhikagrama on the banks of the Rijupalika river.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Near which river did Buddha attain enlightenment?"

    He attained enlightenment on the banks of the Niranjana river (modern-day Phalgu river).

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Bodh Gaya represents the spiritual birthplace of Buddhism, transforming it from a personal quest into a global philosophy."

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