During the reign of which ruler a new branch of Buddhism named Mahayan came into existence?

The correct answer is - Kanishka

Key Points

• Kanishka
  • Kanishka was a prominent ruler of the Kushan dynasty in the 2nd century CE.
  • He is renowned for his support and patronage of Buddhism.
  • During his reign, the Mahayana branch of Buddhism came into existence, which emphasized the path of the Bodhisattva and the concept of the Buddha as a transcendent being.
  • Kanishka's council, often referred to as the Fourth Buddhist Council, played a crucial role in the development and spread of Mahayana Buddhism.

Additional Information

• Pushyamitra
  • Founder of the Shunga dynasty and known for his initial support of Brahmanism.
  • His reign is often associated with the decline of Buddhism in some regions due to his Brahmanical revival policies.
• Brahadratha
  • The last ruler of the Maurya dynasty, he was overthrown by his general Pushyamitra Shunga.
  • His reign marked the end of the Mauryan Empire and has limited association with the development of Buddhism.
• Agnimitra
  • Son of Pushyamitra Shunga and the second ruler of the Shunga dynasty.
  • His reign continued the policies of his father, but there is no significant contribution to Buddhism during his rule.