Concept:The major branches of Buddhism are Hinayana and Mahayana.
Explanation:Hinayana, also called Theravada, is the older and more conservative branch of Buddhism.
It focuses on personal enlightenment, strict monastic discipline, and the Pali Canon.
It is mainly practiced in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.
Mahayana is the more liberal branch and emphasizes compassion and the bodhisattva ideal.
It includes later scriptures such as the Mahayana Sutras.
It is widely followed in China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Tibet.
A bodhisattva is an enlightened being who postpones nirvana to help others achieve liberation.
Therefore, the two major branches of Buddhism are Hinayana and Mahayana.
Answer:Option C - Hinayana and Mahayana.