Correct option is C
The correct answer is (c) Buddhism
Explanation:
- The Pala Empire was the last major Indian power that patronized Buddhism.
- They were followers of the Mahayana and Vajrayana schools of Buddhism.
- They founded great universities like Vikramshila, Somapura, and Odantapuri.
- During their rule, Buddhist art and sculpture (Pala School of Art) reached its zenith.
- They maintained strong diplomatic and religious ties with the Srivijaya Empire in Southeast Asia.
Information Booster:
- The Pala period is considered a Golden Age for Bengal's literature and art.
- The Pala dynasty was replaced by the Sena dynasty, who were patrons of Hinduism (Shaivism).
Additional Knowledge:
Vaishnavism (Option a)
- While present in the society, it was not the official religion or the primary focus of royal patronage during the Pala era.
Shaivism (Option b)
- Gained major state patronage later under the Sena and Chola dynasties.
Jainism (Option d)
- Had strong patronage in the Deccan (Rashtrakutas) and Gujarat (Solankis), but not primarily in Pala-ruled Bengal.
So the correct answer is (c)