Question

Harshavardhana Patronized _ _ _ _ _ _ _ religion.
a. Buddhist
b. Brahmanical
c. Jain
d. Ajivika

Answer 1

Hint:
Harsha was eclectic in his religious views and practices. He was a devotee of Lord Shiva but later converted. He had prohibited non-vegetarian food and also animal sacrifices in his empire. He built several Stupas in the prominent places of Buddhism or on the banks of Ganga River.


Complete solution:
- Harshavardhan was also known as Harsha. He has conducted a huge Buddhist Religious council at Kanauj in 643 AD for religious debate and to felicitate Xuanzang (also known as Huan Tsang) and the council was presided over by Xuanzanfg. Where 20 Kings, 1000 Scholars, more than 3000 Buddhists monks, 3000 Brahmins and Jains participated in his council. And A golden statue of Buddha, which was as tell as the king, was installed in Auditorium. The Council was continued for 23 days.

- The philosophy of Mahayana was explained by Xuanzang in the Buddhist Council.

- The Second Buddhist Council known as Mahamoksha Parishat was organized at Prayag (Allahabad) by Harshavardhanan. This way comes once in five years. Xuanzang was also invited to this council. It was running for 75 Days.


Hence, the correct answer is option A.

Note:
Harshavardhan was the greatest ruler of the Vardhanas and their capital was Thaneshwar. Parents of Harsh were Prabhakara Vardhana and Yashomathi. Banabhatta wrote Harshacharita about Harshavardhana. Harshavardhana was a person of learning and he gave a lot of donations to the Nalanda University. He was an able administrator, a valiant soldier, a patron of literature and also cared for the welfare of the people.