Buddhist Archaeological Sites

Match Buddhist Ruins: Kaushambi, Sarnath, Shravasti

Kaushambi is linked to Ghositarama, Kushinagar to Ramabhar Stupa, Sarnath to Dhamek Stupa, and Shravasti to Sahet-Mahet.

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

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Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List-IList-II
A. Kaushambi1. Dhamek Stupa
B. Kushinagar2. Ghositrama Monastery
C. Sarnath3. Ranabhar Stupa
D. Shravasti4. Sahet-Mahet

[UPPCS (Mains) 2010]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Each major site in the Buddhist circuit is identified by unique structural remains, such as specific monasteries or stupas marking biographical events.

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Kaushambi: Famous for the Ghositarama Monastery built by the banker Ghosita.

  • Kushinagar: Site of the Ramabhar Stupa, which marks the Buddha's cremation spot.

  • Sarnath: Home to the massive Dhamek Stupa marking the first sermon.

  • Shravasti: Identified with the twin ruins of Sahet (monastery) and Mahet (city).
  • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: C-1 (Sarnath-Dhamek) is a highly reliable starting point for matching.

  • Logic 2: D-4 (Shravasti-Sahet Mahet) is the standard archaeological identification for this site.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Where is the Ramabhar Stupa located and what does it signify?"

    It is in Kushinagar and marks the site where the Buddha's body was cremated.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "These ruins provide physical testimony to the widespread institutionalization of Buddhism across the ancient kingdoms of the Gangetic plain."

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