Q. With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets? Nayaputta Shakyamuni Tathagata (UPSC Prelims 2024)
Answer: 2 and 3 only
Notes: The correct answer is [B] 2 and 3 only. This question tests the identification of historical figures through their titles and epithets in ancient Indian traditions.

• Shakyamuni (Statement 2 – Correct): This is one of the most common epithets for Gautama Buddha. It literally means the "Sage of the Shakyas," referring to his birth into the Shakya clan of Kapilavastu.
• Tathagata (Statement 3 – Correct): This is a term the Buddha frequently used to refer to himself in the Pali Canon. It is interpreted as "one who has thus gone" or "one who has thus come," signifying someone who has attained enlightenment and understood the true nature of reality.
• Nayaputta (Statement 1 – Incorrect): This epithet refers to Vardhamana Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. In Buddhist texts, Mahavira is often referred to as Nigantha Nataputta (the naked ascetic of the Jnatrika clan).

Key Context: While both Buddhism and Jainism emerged during the Shramana movement in the 6th century BCE, their terminology remained distinct to maintain their unique identities. The Buddha is also known as Siddhartha (his birth name) and Bhagavan (the Blessed One).