Q. With reference to the reign of the Kushana King Kanishka, consider the following statements:
1.He adopted the title ‘Devputra’ (Son of God), a title that reflects the complete Indianisation of the Kushana rulers.
2.The Buddhist Council convened during his reign was presided over by Vasumitra.
3.The author of Madhyamakakarika and proponent of Madhyamika Shunyavad, Nagarjuna, was his contemporary.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B
Notes:

Explanation:

  • Statement 1: Incorrect. Kanishka adopted the title ‘Devputra’. However, the title reflecting total Indianisation was ‘Shaono Shao Vasudevo Koshano’ of the last Kushana Emperor, Vasudeva.
  • Statement 2: Correct. Kanishka convened the 4th Buddhist Council at Kundalavana, Kashmir, which was presided over by the scholar Vasumitra (who also authored Mahavibhasashashtra).
  • Statement 3: Correct. Nagarjuna (author of Madhyamakakarika and giver of the theory of Madhyamika Shunyavad) was one of the scholars patronized by Kanishka.
Blog
Academy
Community