Which one among the following sects was associated with Gosala Maskariputra ?

Gosala Maskariputra, also known as Makkhali Gosala, was the most prominent leader and the third head of the Ajivika sect [1]. He was a contemporary of Mahavira and Gautama Buddha. According to historical records, Gosala was a companion of Mahavira for six years before they parted ways due to doctrinal disagreements [2]. The Ajivikas were a heterodox (Sramana) sect that believed in the philosophy of 'Niyati' or fatalism, asserting that human effort has no power against destiny. While Buddhist and Jaina texts often portray him negatively due to sectarian rivalry, he was highly influential in Sravasti and was patronized by a rich potter woman named Halahala [2]. The other options—Yajrayana, Sthaviravadins, and Mahasanghikas—are associated with later developments in Buddhism, whereas Gosala is strictly identified with the Ajivika movement [2].

Sources

1. [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 3: Rise of Territorial Kingdoms and New Religious Sects > 3.4 Ajivikas > p. 37
2. [2] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 3: Rise of Territorial Kingdoms and New Religious Sects > 3.4 Ajivikas > p. 38