Multiple choice

The Buddhist sect Mahayana formally came into existence during the reign of

  1. Ajatashatru

  2. Ashoka

  3. Kanishka

  4. Dharmapala

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The Mahayana sect of Buddhism emerged and gained significant state patronage during the reign of the Kushan emperor Kanishka. The Fourth Buddhist Council was also held during his reign in Kashmir, marking the formal split into Mahayana and Hinayana branches.