Kanishka, the Kushana ruler, was a patron of which religion?

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) Buddhism

Explanation:

• Kanishka, the greatest ruler of the Kushana dynasty, was a devoted patron of Buddhism.
• He played a crucial role in the spread of Mahayana Buddhism both within India and beyond — especially to Central Asia and China.
• Kanishka convened the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kundalvana (Kashmir) during his reign, which marked the formal division between Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhism.

Information Booster:

• His reign marked the golden age of the Kushanas, noted for cultural, artistic, and religious developments.
• Kanishka’s capital was Purushapura (modern-day Peshawar, Pakistan).
• He was also a great patron of Gandhara art, which combined Greek and Indian artistic styles.
• His empire extended from Central Asia to northern India, facilitating the transmission of Buddhism along the Silk Road.