Question

How did Buddhism grow during Kushana dynasty?

Answer 1

Kanishka was the most reputed Kushana ruler. During his region Buddhism spread to a great extent. He organised a Buddhist council where scholars used to gather to discuss major issues. Ashvaghosha was a renowned poet in his court. He wrote the biography of the Buddha. Mahayana Buddhism emerged as a new form. This had two special features. Earlier, Buddha's presence was shown in sculpture by using certain signs. Now statues of Buddha were made. Mathura and Taxila became prominent places where several statues of Buddha were made. The second distinct feature was a belief in Bodhisattvas, who were sacred people and had attained enlightenment. The worship of Bodhisattvas gained popularity in Central Asia, China and later to Korea and Japan. Buddhism also spread to western and southern India. It also spread south eastwards to Sri Lanka, Myanmar. Thailand and other parts of South east Asia including Indonesia.