Kashmir's Ancient Role: A Cradle for Global Buddhist Expansion

सही उत्तर: A

Statement 1 is correct. The Fourth Buddhist Council is widely believed to have been held in Kundalvana, Kashmir, under Emperor Kanishka. Statement 2 is correct. The article highlights Kashmir as a vibrant intellectual hub during the Kushan period, crucial for developing distinct schools of thought (like Mahayana) and translating Buddhist texts. Statement 3 is incorrect. While Gandhara art influenced the broader region and depicted Buddha in human form, its primary centers were in the Gandhara region (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan), not primarily Kashmir. Kashmir later developed its own distinct art styles.

सही उत्तर: C

Option A is incorrect; the Pali Canon was primarily preserved in Sri Lanka and transmitted to Southeast Asia. Kashmir was more associated with Sanskrit texts and Mahayana Buddhism. Option B is incorrect; while intellectual synthesis occurred, the emergence of Vajrayana is a complex process not solely attributed to Kashmir's synthesis with Vedic traditions in this specific context. Kashmir's major role was more in Mahayana development and transmission. Option D is incorrect; Hinayana (Theravada) is an older school, and while present, Kashmir's major contribution during the Kushan period was towards Mahayana development and its northern spread. Option C is correct as it accurately reflects the article's emphasis on Kashmir's unique geographical position, intellectual environment, translation efforts, and its role in transmitting Buddhism to Central Asia, Tibet, and East Asia.