- In the early years of his rule, Kanishka embraced Buddhism. But in addition to depicting Buddha, his coins also feature Greek and Hindu deities. It illustrates the tolerance of the Kanishka for different religions. Kanishka also sent missionaries to Central Asia and China for the propagation of the new faith. Buddhist chaityas and viharas were built in different places. He patronised Buddhist scholars like Vasumitra, Asvagosha and Nagarjuna.
- Kanishka was famous in history as a great patron of Buddhism. He convened the fourth Buddhist Council at Kundalavana (present day Harwan near Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir) in which a large number of Buddhist scholars took part. It was in this council that Buddhism got split into two schools – Hinayana and Mahayana. Kanishka also patronized the Gandhara and Mathura schools of sculptural art.
- Kanishka was famous in history as a great patron of Buddhism. He convened the fourth Buddhist Council at Kundalavana (present day Harwan near Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir) in which a large number of Buddhist scholars took part. It was in this council that Buddhism got split into two schools – Hinayana and Mahayana. Kanishka also patronized the Gandhara and Mathura schools of sculptural art.
| Gandhara Art | Mathura School of Art |
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End of Kushana Rule
- The reign of Kanishka’s successors lasted another 150 years. The empire was preserved by Kanishka’s son, Huvishka. Under his leadership, the city of Mathura rose to prominence.The last important Kushana ruler was Vasudeva.
Q. Which of the following was the most important characteristic of Kanishka’s rule?
(a) Expansion of Buddhism outside India
(b) Re-emergence of Jainism
(c) Fourth Buddhist Council at Srinagar
(d) Gandhara School or Art
Answer: (c)
Q. The following were famous scholars in ancient India
- Ashvaghosh 2. Nagarjuna
- Vasumitra 4. Buddhaghosa
Which of them was/were contemporary of Kanishka?
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
