With reference to ancient Indian religious traditions, the term Pudgalavada refers to which one of the following? |ForumIAS

[A] A doctrine of orthodox Vedic rituals asserting the eternal nature of the soul.

[B] A Buddhist philosophical school asserting the existence of a person to explain karma and rebirth without accepting an eternal soul.

[C] A Jain ethical principle regulating the ascetic vows of lay followers.

[D] An Ajivika materialist theory denying the operation of karma and moral consequence.

Answer: B

Notes:

Explanation:

Option (b) is correct: Pudgalavada (adhered to by schools like the Vatsiputriyas and Sammitiyas) was a unique Buddhist doctrine asserting that an entity called the Pudgala (person) exists. This person is neither identical to nor separate from the five aggregates (Skandhas), providing a conceptual mechanism to explain karma, transmigration, and liberation without violating the core Buddhist doctrine of Anatta (non-self).