Which city served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Magadha during the early Vedic period?

This question was previously asked in
69th BPSC Prelims Exam Official Paper (Held On: 30 Sept, 2023)
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  1. Rajagriha
  2. Campa
  3. Vaishali
  4. Pataliputra

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Rajagriha
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Ancient History: Prehistoric Period
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10 Questions 10 Marks 8 Mins

Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is ​Rajagriha.

Key Points

  •  The capital of Magadha was Girivraj (modern Rajgir, Bihar). This city was sorrounded by rings of mountains and was, therefore, difficult to lay siege.
  • The capital of Magadha was shifted from Rajagriha to Pataliputra by King Udayin.

Additional Information

  •  In Ancient history, in the 6th century BC, North Indian provinces were divided into seven kingdoms out of which Avanti, Kosla, Vatsa, and Magadha.
  • Among which Magadha rose as an emerging power defeating other surrounding provinces.
  • Also, Magadha was a good centre for trade and fertile land. 
  • The first dynasty ruled over Magadha was the Haryanaka Dynasty whose prominent rulers were Bimbisara and Ajatshatru.
  • Bimbisara made Rajagriha as the capital.
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