Buddhism is a major world religion that originated in India around the 5th century BCE. It is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, who lived and taught in the northeastern part of the Indian subcontinent.

Buddhism spread rapidly throughout India during the Buddha's lifetime and for centuries after his death. It reached its peak during the reign of the Indian emperor Ashoka, who converted to Buddhism and actively promoted the religion throughout his empire.