Who among the following rulers held a Religious Assembly at Prayag after every 5 years?

The correct answer is Harshavardhana.

Key Points

• Harshavardhana was a prominent Indian emperor who ruled North India from 606 to 647 CE and belonged to the Vardhana dynasty.
• He organized a grand religious assembly at Prayag (modern-day Allahabad) every five years, where he donated his wealth and performed charitable acts.
• The assembly at Prayag was attended by scholars, monks, and representatives of various religions, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.
• The Chinese traveler Xuanzang (Hiuen Tsang) documented Harsha's religious assemblies, highlighting his dedication to promoting Buddhism and philanthropy.
• Harsha used these assemblies to strengthen cultural ties and propagate ideas of universal peace and religious harmony.

Additional Information

• Xuanzang's Account:
  • Xuanzang, a Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler, visited India during Harsha's reign and documented his observations extensively.
  • Xuanzang described Harsha as a patron of Buddhism and a generous ruler who organized large gatherings and distributed wealth to the needy.
• Religious Assemblies:
  • Religious assemblies were a common practice in ancient India to promote cultural exchange and religious dialogue.
  • These assemblies often involved debates, discussions, and charitable activities to foster harmony among different communities.
• Prayag:
  • Prayag, now known as Allahabad, holds immense historical and religious significance in India.
  • It is considered one of the holiest cities, associated with the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers.
• Harsha's Contribution to Buddhism:
  • Although initially a follower of Hinduism, Harsha became a staunch supporter of Buddhism later in his reign.
  • He constructed numerous monasteries and supported the spread of Buddhism across his empire.