Question 32 from UPSC CSE 2023 - Ancient India

Question

In which one of the following regions was Dhanyakataka, which flourished as a prominent Buddhist centre under the Mahasanghikas, located?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Andhra

Strategy: Focus on the unique historical association between Dhanyakataka and Buddhist history. The key clue is its connection with the Mahasanghikas and the distinctive Amaravati Buddhist art. Both Amaravati and Dhanyakataka are historically linked with Andhra Pradesh, not with Gandhara, Kalinga, or Magadha. These other regions were separate centers of Buddhism but never shared a direct association with Dhanyakataka or the Mahasanghikas' initial stronghold. Recognition of the Satavahana period's influence further reinforces Andhra as the correct answer.

Key Info: Dhanyakataka, presently known as Dharanikota and located near Amaravati in modern Andhra Pradesh, served as the capital of the later Satavahanas and became a pivotal Buddhist center in South India.

Key aspects of Dhanyakataka's historical and Buddhist significance:
*   **Amaravati Stupa** -- Renowned for its elaborate sculptures and as a vibrant hub for Mahayana Buddhist activity.
*   **Mahasanghika School** -- The region was particularly influential for this school, one of the earliest Buddhist sects, which likely originated in Andhra. Archaeological and inscriptional evidence attest to its prominence at Amaravati and Dhanyakataka.
*   **Satavahana Patronage** (1st-3rd century CE) -- Under their support, the region became a nucleus for Buddhist scholarship, monumental structure-building, and international pilgrimage.
*   **Distinct from other Buddhist centers** -- While Gandhara (NW Pakistan), Kalinga (eastern India, Odisha), and Magadha (Bihar) were major Buddhist regions, they held no direct connection to Dhanyakataka. Kausambi and Mathura, for instance, were centers for other sects such as Theravada and Sarvastivada Buddhism.
*   **Historical Attestation** -- The region's prominence is further supported by Chinese pilgrim accounts and Buddhist literature, which describe Dhanyakataka's monasteries as vibrant learning centers.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Gandhara

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Kalinga

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Magadha