Prelims 2014 · archive
MediumWhich of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of the Buddha?
- 1.Avanti
- 2.Gandhara
- 3.Kosala
- 4.Magadha
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Answer & explanation
Answer: (d) 3 and 4 only
The Buddha's life centred on Kosala (Shravasti, Kapilavastu region) and Magadha (Rajagriha, Bodh Gaya). Avanti and Gandhara lay outside the Gangetic valley where he lived and taught; they received Buddhism and relics later.
- ✗ 1. Avanti was outside the Buddha's own area of activity.
- ✗ 2. Gandhara was outside the Gangetic valley.
- ✓ 3. Kosala was one of the Buddha's main kingdoms.
- ✓ 4. Magadha, where he attained enlightenment and taught.
Remember · Buddha: Kosala and Magadha.
📘 Read it in NCERT: Class 11 An Introduction to Indian Art, Part I, Ch 3 (practise this chapter)
Sources
- NCERT Class 11 · An Introduction to Indian Art, Part I, Chapter 3 “The textual tradition also mentions construction of various other stupas on the relics of the Buddha at several places including Avanti and Gandhara which are outside the Gangetic valley.”
Question: UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) 2014, General Studies paper. UPSC did not publish an answer key for 2014: the answer shown is the one the sources above support. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 24 Oct 2026 (how we verify). ·