Which 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 code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 3 and 4 only ✓ UPSC's answer
(d) 1, 3 and 4

Why the answer is (c)

• The Buddha's life centred on Kosala (birth at Lumbini in the Shakya territory, long stays at Sravasti) and Magadha (enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, preaching at Rajagriha under Bimbisara and Ajatashatru).

• Avanti (1) and Gandhara (2), though among the sixteen Mahajanapadas, were not directly associated with his life.

• Hence 3 and 4 only, option (c).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) 1, 2 and 3: Avanti and Gandhara were not associated; Magadha was.
(b) 2 and 4: Gandhara was not associated; Kosala was.
(d) 1, 3 and 4: Avanti was not associated with the Buddha's life.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2014, held on 24 August 2014. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.