The Mahajanapada of Kasi (Kashi) is related to which present-day city?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer: Banaras (Varanasi)
Explanation:
The ancient Kasi Mahajanapada was one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas of ancient India, mentioned in early Buddhist and Jain texts.
- Its capital was Varanasi (Banaras).
- Varanasi was situated between the Varuna and Asi rivers.
- The region corresponds broadly to present-day Varanasi and its surrounding areas in Uttar Pradesh.
- Since ancient times, Varanasi has been an important center of commerce, spiritual learning, and culture.
Additional Points:
- The Anguttara Nikaya and Bhagavati Sutra provide accounts of the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
- Several Mahajanapadas were located in areas that form part of present-day Uttar Pradesh.
- Kasi was one of the prominent Mahajanapadas during the period of the rise of Buddhism and Jainism.
Important Questions and Answers:
Question: What was the capital of the ancient Kasi Mahajanapada?
Answer: Varanasi (Banaras)
Question: How many Mahajanapadas are traditionally mentioned in ancient Buddhist and Jain literature?
Answer: 16 Mahajanapadas
Question: Between which two rivers was ancient Varanasi situated?
Answer: Varuna and Asi