Because the Mauryan empire was so broad, different regions were governed differently. The emperor exercised direct control over the area surrounding _____.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Pataliputra.
In the Mauryan Empire, the area around the capital city of Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) was under the direct control of the emperor.
Pataliputra served as the imperial capital of the Mauryan dynasty, and the emperor exercised direct authority over this central region.
The vast Mauryan Empire was administratively divided into provinces, each ruled by a governor or viceroy, but the core areas around Pataliputra were under the immediate governance of the emperor.
The Mauryan Empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya, was one of the most significant empires in ancient India, and its administrative structure allowed for efficient control over its vast territories.