Question

Which of the following statements is/are correct concerning Kanishka?

1. He introduced the Saka era in 58 AD.

2. Buddhism was divided into Mahayana and Hinayana during his reign.

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : 2 only

The correct answer is 2 only.

• Kanishka was the most powerful ruler of the Kushana Empire.
• The capital of his empire was Purushpura (Peshawar).
  • His empire extended from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan to Mathura and Kashmir.
• He was the successor of Vima Kadphises.
• Rabatak inscription belongs to the Kushan kingdom.
• He was the founder of the Saka Era of A.D. 78. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect.
• He had invaded Patliputra.
• Kanishka was a patron of Buddhism and he called the 4th Buddhist council in the Kundalvana of Kashmir in 78 AD.
• The council was chaired by Vasumitra and during this council the collection of Buddhist texts took place.
  • Buddhism was divided into Mahayana and Hinayana during his reign. Hence statement 2 is correct.
• The scholars who resided in Kanishka’s court were Sushruta,  Vasumitra, Asvaghosa, Nagarjuna, Charaka, and Parsva.
• He fought against King Han Ho-ti (Han dynasty of China). and defeated the Chinese king in the second attempt.