In the Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was also known as
- AVajrapani
- BManjusri
- CPadmapaniCorrect
- DMaitreya
Explanation
The correct answer is C because Padmapani literally means the one who holds the lotus in Sanskrit. In Mahayana Buddhism, Avalokitesvara is the Bodhisattva who represents infinite compassion and is traditionally depicted holding a pink lotus flower.
While the other options are also Bodhisattvas, they represent different qualities. Vajrapani represents power and holds a thunderbolt. Manjusri represents wisdom and holds a sword. Maitreya is the future Buddha who is yet to appear on Earth. Therefore, Avalokitesvara is specifically identified with the name Padmapani.

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