Ganga
Explanation
The Jataka tales are a voluminous body of literature concerning the previous births of Gautama Buddha in both human and animal forms. These stories are integral to Buddhist art and teachings, often depicting the Bodhisattva exemplifying specific virtues such as self-sacrifice.
Detailed Analysis:
- The story of the 'Great Monkey King' is formally known as the Mahakapi Jataka. It is famously depicted in the stone reliefs of the Sanchi Stupa (West Gateway) and Bharhut.
- According to the narrative, the Bodhisattva was born as a monkey king living with his troop in a giant mango tree that grew on the banks of the River Ganga.
- The story describes an encounter with the King of Varanasi (Benares), a city historically situated on the banks of the Ganga. When the human king's soldiers attacked the monkeys to possess the mangoes, the Monkey King used his own body to form a bridge across the river, allowing his troop to escape to safety.
- Therefore, the geographical setting of this specific Jataka tale is the River Ganga.
Key Takeaway:
The Mahakapi Jataka is set on the banks of the River Ganga and illustrates the ideal of a selfless leader who sacrifices his own well-being for the safety of his subjects.