• Dr.VENKATESHA

Buddhism originated in the 5th-6th century BCE in northern India. It has produced a wealth of philosophical and doctrinal literature in various languages and schools. Buddhism was founded by former prince Siddhartha who later renounced his family in search of enlightenment and was called Buddha. Buddhism’s core teachings are that all of the sufferings in life are caused by desires. And one must stop the life desires to stop the suffering, enlightenment can be achieved by following the Noble Eightfold path (Eight rules that guide the life and morals of the followers to achieve enlightenment). Buddhist beliefs denote that all actions bring rewards or retribution. Although Buddhism is not widespread in India, where it originated, it has affected the culture of India in many ways.

Buddhism had a huge influence on Indian culture as it provided the Indian people with a popular religion that was simple to understand and follow. Buddhist teachings disavowed the social norms of that time, ritualism, sacrifices, and dominance of the priestly class prevalent in the 5th-6th BCE era and left a permanent influence on religious thoughts in India. Buddhism attracted the common people because of its simplicity and ease to understand, and the scriptures and teaching method, and monastic order were given in the language commonly spoken most. It gave a tremendous push for social equality and democratic values. It encouraged the abolition of social distinction and strengthened social equality, it opened a way for the women and Shudras to be involved in society and religion, and it disorganised the abstract philosophy of the Upanishads. Buddhism left a deep and significant impact on society

"Contributions of Buddhism to Indian Culture", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 1, page no.613-616, January-2019, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1901I83.pdf

"Contributions of Buddhism to Indian Culture", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.6, Issue 1, page no. pp613-616, January-2019, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1901I83.pdf