In the Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was also known as:

UPSC CSE Pre 1997

A. Vajrapani
B. Manjusri
C. Padmapani
D. Maitreya

Answer: Padmapani

Option c is the correct answer. In Mahayana Buddhism, Avalokitesvara is known as Padmapani, which means "Holder of the Lotus". He is depicted as a bodhisattva with a lotus flower in his hand. He is also known as Guanyin in Chinese Buddhism and Kannon in Japanese Buddhism. Avalokitesvara is the bodhisattva of compassion and mercy. He is said to have vowed to save all sentient beings from suffering. He is a popular figure of worship in Mahayana Buddhism and is often depicted in art and literature. Important Tips Avalokitesvara: Avalokitesvara, one of Buddha's protective deities, is also known as Padmapani. He's often seen holding a Lotus Flower. His picture in the Ajanta Caves is very famous among all the Bodhisattvas. This kind-hearted bodhisattva listens to the world's pleas and finds smart ways to help. In Cambodian Theravada Buddhism, he's sometimes known as Lokesvara. He's shown as both a man and a woman, and some believe that His Holiness the Dalai Lama is his incarnation. Vajrapani: Vajrapani is one of three guardian deities near Buddha, shown in the Ajanta Caves. It's said that he has all of Buddha's powers and the powers of five other tathagatas - Vairocana, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Ratnasambhava, and Amoghasiddhi. Manjusri: Manjusri is another protecting deity near Buddha, also in the Ajanta Caves. He's a male Bodhisattva holding a sword, and he's linked with Buddha's Wisdom. Avalokitesvara represents compassion, Vajrapani embodies strength, and Manjusri thinks about Buddha's knowledge. Samantabhadra: Linked to meditation and practice, he's part of the Shakyamuni triad, which includes Buddha and Manjusri. Ksitigarbha: He's shown as a Buddhist monk who promised not to become a Buddha until hell was completely empty. Maitreya: He's a future Buddha who will come to Earth, achieve perfect enlightenment, and teach true dharma. Some say the Laughing Buddha is Maitreya's incarnation. Akasagarbha: Connected with the idea of space. Tara: Tara is a Vajrayana Buddhist deity who represents success and achievements. Vasudhara: He symbolizes wealth, success, and plenty. He's quite popular in Nepal. Skanda: He guards viharas and Buddhist teachings. Sitatapatra: She's respected in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions for protection against supernatural danger.

© 2025 upscools. All Rights Reserved.