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07 Apr 2025
GS Paper 5
UP Special
Day 28: Describe the rise of Buddhism and identify major Buddhist sites with respect to Uttar Pradesh. (Answer in 125 words)
Approach
- Start your answer by mentioning the rise of Buddhism in Uttar Pradesh.
- Discuss the major sites of Uttar Pradesh which are associated with Buddhism.
- Write a suitable conclusion.
Introduction
Buddhism started in India over 2,600 years ago as a way of life that had the potential to transform a person. It had its origins in the ancient region of Magadha, which is in present-day Bihar. The religion is based upon the teachings and life experiences of its founder, Siddhartha Gautam (Mahatma Buddha), born in 563 BCE in the Shakya Republic in Lumbini, Nepal. The Shakya Republic was located in what is now eastern Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh was a significant centre of Buddhist activity during ancient times.
Body
The Rise of Buddhism in Uttar Pradesh:
Buddhism started gaining popularity in Uttar Pradesh when Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, at Sarnath near present day Varanasi. During the reign of Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, Buddhism was further popularized as he turned to it after the Kalinga War. He sponsored the construction of several Buddhist monasteries and stupas in the region.
The state is also home to several of the Eight Great Places of Buddhist Pilgrimage, including Sarnath and Kushinagar, where Buddha achieved enlightenment and passed away, respectively.
Major Buddhist Sites of Uttar Pradesh:
- Kapilavastu: This ancient city near Lumbini, is believed to be the birthplace of Buddha. It is a holy place where Buddha grow up as a child. It is identified with the present day township of Piprahwa in Siddharthnagar district. Lord Buddha left his palace in Kapilvastu at the age of 29 and revisited it 12 years later, after attaining enlightenment.
- Sarnath: Its ancient name was ‘Rishipattan’. Located near the city of Varanasi, it is one of the most important Buddhist sites in India. This is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, which is known as the ‘Dharmachakra Pravartana’. The site is home to several stupas, monasteries, and temples, including the famous Dhamek Stupa, which is believed to mark the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Kushinagar: This is the place of Parinirvana, or the death of Buddha. The town is home to several Buddhist temples, including the Mahaparinirvana Temple, which houses a 6-metre-long statue of Buddha in the reclining position.
- Shravasti: The city is home to several important Buddhist sites, including the Jetavana Monastery, the place where Buddha delivered most of his sermons.
- Kaushambi: The famous Ghositarama Monastery, which is believed to have been built by Buddha’s disciple, Ananda is located here.
- Sankisa: Lord Buddha descended here after giving sermon to his mother in heaven. It is identified as a place in Farrukhabad.
Conclusion
Buddhism played a significant role in the cultural and religious history of Uttar Pradesh, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world every year. These sites serve as reminders of the rich Buddhist heritage of Uttar Pradesh and the contributions of the religion to Indian culture and philosophy.
