Question

Jainism was divided into two sects, Svetambaras (White – Clad ) and Digambaras ( Sky – clad or naked), during the reign of the ______.
A. Nandas
B. Mauryas
C. Kushans
D. Shungas

Answer 1

Hint:
Jainism was divided into two sects during the reign of the empire whose capital was Pataliputra and the common languages that were spoken during that time were Magadhi and Prakrit.

Complete answer:
The division took place during the reign of the Mauryan empire. The era of the Mauryan empire is also called the Iron age. It was founded by Chandragupta Maurya. Some other important rulers of this empire were Bindusara, Ashoka, Dashratha, Samprati, Shalishuka, Devvarman, Shatadhanvan, and Brihadranath. The Mauryan empire was established in the greater Punjab. Chandragupta Maurya was born in 340 BC in Pataliputra. He died in Shravanabelagola. His father was Sarvarthasiddhi Maurya and his mother was Mura Maurya. He was the successor of Bindusara. Chandragup[ta is also called “ Sandrokotton '' or “Androkottos''. He followed the religion of Jainism. The source of the information of Chandragupta Maurya includes texts called Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Maha Bodhi Vamsa, and many more. Some other texts were written by Megasthenes, Strabo, Diodorus, Nearchus, etc. Some memorials of Chandragupta Maurya include Chandragiri hills of Karnataka and the postage stamps were also issued in his honor.
Hence, the correct answer is option B.
Additional Information – Bindusara was born in 320 BC. His full name is Simhasena. He was born to Chandragupta Maurya and Durdhara. He is also called “ Amitrochates”. He was the second emperor of the Mauryan empire.

Note:
Ashoka is also called Ashoka the great. He was born in 340 BC in Pataliputra. He was born to Bindusara and Subhadrangi. He is credited for the construction of several stupas and Viharas such as Mahabodhi Temple, Sanchi stupa, and Bharhut stupa.