Buddhism, India’s Soft Power Projection Tool Context: A two-day international Buddhist summit was held in India’s capital city of New Delhi (April 20–21), and it was planned by the Ministry of Culture in association with the International Buddhist Confederation. The Dalai Lama and several prominent […]
Dalai Lama #GS-01 Buddhism For Prelims Dalai Lama Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Gelugpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, which is the largest and most influential tradition in Tibet. Dalai Lamas are believed to be the manifestations of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion […]
Buddhism Part-4 The rise and fall of Buddhism The causes for rise of Buddhism Kshatriya class’s rising resentment towards the domination of the priestly class: Under the order of hierarchy in the Varna system Brahmanas were ranked at the top due to their knowledge and […]
Buddhism Part-3 Buddhist Architecture Cave Architecture Viharas are dwelling places used by wandering monks during the rainy season which later evolved into centres of learning. Chaityas are shrines, sanctuaries, temples or prayer halls which have a giant hall with high vaulted roof, with a lot […]
Buddhism Part-2 The Buddhist councils: Buddhist Councils marked important turning points in the evolution of Buddhism. First Council: The council was held in the Sattapani cave at Rajgriha. It was held around 483 BC and was presided by Mahakasyapa under the patronage of King Ajatshatru. […]
PIB Analysis ASI has unraveled remarkable archaeological remains in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Forest Reserve What was found? During the exploration conducted by ASI, 26 ancient temples/relics of Kalachuri period (9thcentury CE to 11th Century CE), 26 caves (2nd Century CE to 5th century CE mostly Buddhist in nature), 2 […]
Buddhism Part-1 About Buddhism Buddhism is one of the most prevelant religions of South and South-Eastern Asian countries. It originated in India over 2,600 years ago when Gautama Buddha gained enlightenment and spread his teachings. Currently it is the world’s fourth-largest religion and has over […]