[Solved] Kushinagar: Capital of Malla Republic and Buddha's Death

Consider the following statements: Assertion (A): Kushinagar was the capital of Malla Republic. Reason (R): Lord Buddha's Mahaparinirvana took place in Kushinagar.

[U.P.P.C.S. Special Prelims 2004]

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Correct Option: B

Kushinagar was the capital of the Malla Republic and the site of Buddha's death (Mahaparinirvana). Both facts are true, though they are independent historical features of the city.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.

D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

Ancient Kushinara (Kushinagar) served both a political and religious function in early Indian history.

Authentic Source Evidence

Kushinagar was indeed the capital of one of the branches of the Malla republic (one of the 16 Mahajanapadas). It is also the specific location where Gautama Buddha passed away (Mahaparinirvana) in 483 BCE.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Both statements are individually true. (A) describes its political status, and (R) describes its religious significance.

Logic 2: However, (R) is not the explanation of (A). Kushinagar was the capital because of the Malla people's political organization, not because the Buddha chose to die there centuries after it was established.

Historical Logic Quest

"Why did Buddha choose Kushinagar for his final departure?"

According to tradition, it was a quiet place suitable for his final moments, and he wished to honor the hospitality of the Mallas.

The Topper's Edge

"The transition from Kushinara as a political capital to a religious pilgrimage site (Kushinagar) shows the lasting legacy of the Buddha on Indian geography."

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