🏛️ History & Art-CultureUPSC 2002Architecture in India

In ancient Indian Buddhist monasteries, a ceremony called Pavarana used to be held. It was the:

aOccasion to elect the Sanghparinayaka and two speakers, one on Dhamma and the other on Vinaya
bConfession by monks of their offenses committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season
cCeremony of initiation of a new person into the Buddhist Sangha in which the head is shaved and yellow robes are offered
dGathering of Buddhist monks on the next day to the full-moon day of Ashadha when they take up a fixed abode for the next four months of the rainy season
✓ Correct answer: b) Confession by monks of their offenses committed during their stay in the monasteries during the rainy season
ExplanationPavarana is a significant Buddhist ceremony observed at the end of Vassa, the three-month rainy season retreat for monks.During this retreat monks stay in a fixed monastery and refrain from extensive travel to avoid harming small creatures that emerge during the rains.On the full moon day of Ashvin (September–October) the Pavarana ceremony is held which marks the conclusion of Vassa.It serves as a day of confession when monks publicly acknowledge any offenses or mistakes they may have committed during their stay.It allows fellow monks to offer constructive criticism, fostering discipline and humility within the Sangha.It is an essential aspect of Vinaya (monastic discipline) which reinforces ethical behavior.87

Practice more History PYQs

Attempt a free 10-question quiz or browse the full History & Art-Culture previous-year-question bank with instant answers and explanations.

🏛️ History PYQs →