Q.18. Uttar Pradesh has an important place in the propagation of Buddhism. Explain. बौद्ध धर्म के प्रचार-प्रसार में उत्तर प्रदेश का महत्वपूर्ण स्थान है| व्याख्या कीजिए|

Uttar Pradesh is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Lumbini, where Buddha was born, is located in present-day Nepal but is historically linked to the region that is now Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh holds a significant place in the history and propagation of Buddhism. Here are some key points that highlight its importance:

• Sarnath: It is at Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, where Gautama Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This event is known as the Dharmachakra Pravartana or the turning of the Wheel of Dharma.
• Kushinagar: This town in Uttar Pradesh is revered as the site where Buddha attained Pari nirvana, the final state of Nirvana after death.
• Sravasti: Sravasti was one of the six largest cities in India during Buddha’s lifetime and became a major center of Buddhism. The Buddha is said to have spent 24 rainy seasons here.
• Buddhist Art and Culture: Uttar Pradesh has a rich heritage of Buddhist art and culture. This includes ancient sculptures, stupas, monasteries, and inscriptions that reflect the influence of Buddhism in the region during ancient times.
• Architectural Influence: The architecture in Uttar Pradesh, such as the Panch Mahal of Sikri and Attala Masjid of Jaunpur, shows glimpses of Buddhist influence.
• Pilgrimage and Tourism: Due to its association with Buddhism, Uttar Pradesh, along with Bihar, formed the hub of early Buddhism. From these regions, Buddhism spread to other parts of the world, including Southeast Asia. Therefore it attracts a large number of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The state government and tourism authorities promote Buddhist heritage tourism, highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of these sites.

The region’s contribution to Buddhism is not only limited to being the birthplace of several key events in the life of Buddha but also as a center for Buddhist thought, culture, and architecture. The ancient monasteries, stupas, and teachings that originated in Uttar Pradesh played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across Asia and the world.