In ancient India, the Mahajanapada of 'Anga' had its capital at which city in Bihar?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Champa.
Explanation:
Champa was the capital of 'Anga'—one of the 16 Mahajanapadas (Great Kingdoms) of ancient India. In terms of current geography, this region falls within the Bhagalpur and Munger districts of Bihar. At that time, Champa was renowned as a major commercial hub due to its trading prosperity and its strategic location along the banks of the River Ganges.
Additional Facts:
- The 16 Mahajanapadas: These are mentioned in the Buddhist text *Anguttara Nikaya* and the Jain text *Bhagavati Sutra*.
- Annexation of Anga: Bimbisara, the ruler of Magadha, conquered the Anga Mahajanapada and incorporated it into the Magadha Empire.
Details of Other Options:
- Vaishali: This was the capital of the 'Vajji' Mahajanapada (considered the world's first republic).
- Kaushambi: This was the capital of the 'Vatsa' Mahajanapada.
- Gaya: This was a significant religious and cultural part of the Magadha Mahajanapada.
- Ancient Name of Champa: In ancient times, it was also known by the name 'Malini'.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: In which ancient text is the list of the 16 Mahajanapadas found for the first time?
Answer: The Buddhist text *Anguttara Nikaya*.
Question: What was the earliest capital of the Magadha Mahajanapada?
Answer: Girivraja or Rajagriha.
Question: At the confluence of which rivers was the city of Champa situated?
Answer: At the confluence of the Ganges and the Champa River.