[Solved] Who presided over the First Buddhist Council?

First Buddhist Conference after the death of Buddha was presided over by:

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2000]

Following the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha, the Sangha needed to codify his teachings to prevent sectarian drift.

Buddhist chronicles record that Mahakashyapa (the senior-most monk) presided over the First Council held at the Saptaparni cave in Rajagriha.

Mahakashyapa (A): Chosen for his spiritual seniority and authority.

Ajatashatru (C): He was the royal patron/host of the council, not the presiding monk.

Nagasen (D): Known for the 'Milindapanha', lived much later during the Indo-Greek period.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What were the two main Pitakas compiled in this council?"

The Sutta Pitaka (discourses recited by Ananda) and the Vinaya Pitaka (rules recited by Upali).

"The leadership of Mahakashyapa ensured that the Sangha remained a unified and disciplined entity during its first major crisis of succession."

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