UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 100
With reference to ancient India, consider the following statements :
- The concept of Stupa is Buddhist in origin.
- Stupa was generally a repository of relics.
- Stupa was a votive and commemorative structure in Buddhist tradition.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B (Only two)
Explanation: Stupa-like burial mounds predate Buddhism; in Buddhist tradition stupas became relic repositories and votive/commemorative monuments.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
1. Incorrect/False - Mound and tumulus burial practices existed before Buddhism, so stupa construction was not exclusively Buddhist in origin.
2. Correct/True - Stupas commonly enshrine relics linked to the Buddha or other revered figures.
3. Correct/True - Buddhist stupas serve devotional, votive and commemorative purposes.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-it counts 1, but items 2, 3 qualify, giving 2.
B. Correct-exactly 2 of the 3 listed items satisfy the condition.
C. Incorrect-it counts 3, but only 2 qualify; item(s) 1 do not.
D. Incorrect-it counts 0, but items 2, 3 qualify, giving 2.