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Buddhist Literature

Gandatindu Jataka: Language and Historical Context

The Gandatindu Jataka, like other Buddhist Jataka tales, was written in the Pali language.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 12 - Themes in Indian History Part I

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The story Gandatindu Jataka was written in which language?

[UPSC CDS 2018 (II)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Jataka tales were popular stories of the Buddha’s previous births, used to teach moral lessons and documented in the vernacular of the common people.

Authentic Source Evidence


All canonical Jataka stories, including the Gandatindu Jataka, are part of the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka, which is composed entirely in Pali.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Pali was the lingua franca of early Buddhism to ensure accessibility to the masses.

  • Logic 2: The Gandatindu Jataka is specifically cited in NCERT as a source describing the plight of subjects under a wicked king.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the historical value of the Gandatindu Jataka?"

    It provides a rare 'bottom-up' perspective on how villagers suffered from heavy taxation and banditry, contrasting with official royal inscriptions.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Jataka stories serve as a vital secular archive of ancient social tensions, masked within religious narratives."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Pali Canon 6Sutta Pitaka 4Jataka Tales 6
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