Tantric Buddhism and Relics

Tantric Buddhism and Relics

The discovery of a 1.4-meter Buddha head and stupas over 1,500 years old in Ratnagiri, Odisha, confirms the region’s significance as a hub for Tantric Buddhism.

Buddhism has three primary schools: Theravāda (orthodox), Mahāyāna (which includes Zen and Pure Land), and Vajrayāna (which includes Tibetan Buddhism).

Evolution of Tantric Buddhism

Tantric Buddhism represents a shift from abstract philosophical teachings to practical methods (sadhana) aimed at enlightenment.
Mahāyāna Buddhism introduced mantras and rituals, leading to the development of two branches: Mantrayana (early Tantra) and Paramita-yana.
Mantrayana can be seen as the initial phase of Tantric Buddhism, where yogic practices were incorporated, eventually evolving into a full-fledged form of Tantric Buddhism.

---

Battle of Karnal

The Battle of Karnal, fought on February 24, 1739, significantly shaped the political landscape of the Indian subcontinent.

About the Battle of Karnal
The battle was fought between Nadir Shah, the ruler of Afsharid Persia, and the Mughal Empire led by Emperor Muhammad Shah.
Outcome: The Mughal forces were decisively defeated, and Emperor Muhammad Shah was captured by Nadir Shah. This defeat severely damaged the authority and prestige of the Mughal Empire.
Nadir Shah went on to sack Agra and Delhi, taking the Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-Noor diamond to Persia.

Significance: The battle underscored the growing influence of external powers and the declining grip of the Mughal Empire over its territories. It also paved the way for further invasions and foreign interventions in India.

Tags : UPSC 2025 current affairs preparation, UPSC current affairs January 2025, UPSC 2025 daily current affairs, Best sources for UPSC current affairs 2025, UPSC 2025 current affairs for prelims, UPSC 2025 current affairs for mains, Important current affairs for UPSC 2025, UPSC current affairs strategy 2025, UPSC 2025 current affairs notes, UPSC current affairs PDF 2025, Current affairs for UPSC 2025 preparation, UPSC 2025 current affairs online classes, UPSC current affairs quiz 2025, How to study current affairs for UPSC 2025, UPSC 2025 current affairs magazines, Current affairs for UPSC 2025 prelims and mains, Current affairs updates for UPSC 2025, UPSC 2025 current affairs analysis, Current affairs for UPSC 2025 PDF download, UPSC 2025 current affairs important topics,