Q1. Which of the following was a Gana-Sangha rather than a monarchy?
- Kosala
- Magadha
- Vajji
- Avanti
Correct Option: 3. Vajji
Explanation: Most Mahajanapadas were monarchies, but a few like Vajji (Vrijji) followed the Gana-Sangha system, which was an oligarchic form of government. In Vajji, power was shared among members of several clans, including the Lichchhavis, Videhas, Jnatrikas, and others. Decisions were taken collectively in an assembly known as Santhagara. This decentralized, representative form of governance made Vajji distinct from monarchies like Kosala, Magadha, and Avanti.
Q2. What was the capital city of Magadha during the early Mahajanapada period?
- Ujjayini
- Vaishali
- Pataliputra
- Rajagriha
Correct Option: 4. Rajagriha
Explanation: The initial capital of Magadha was Rajagriha (modern Rajgir). This was before Udayin, a later ruler of the Haryanka dynasty, shifted the capital to Pataliputra for better strategic control over river routes. Rajagriha was surrounded by hills, making it naturally fortified and secure, which was advantageous during the early expansion of Magadha.
Q3. The term ‘Janapada’ literally means:
- The foot of the king
- Land where people settle
- Territory ruled by a king
- The path of warriors
Correct Option: 2. Land where people settle
Explanation: The word Janapada is derived from Jana (tribe or people) and Pada (foot or place). It refers to the land where a tribe settles down. It denotes the early stage of state formation in India when tribal communities transitioned from pastoral-nomadic life to settled agricultural and political units.
Q4. The term ‘Santhagara’ refers to:
- A Buddhist monastery
- A temple
- Assembly hall in Gana-Sanghas
- A market
Correct Option: 3. Assembly hall in Gana-Sanghas
Explanation: In Gana-Sangha systems like Vajji and Malla, important decisions were made through deliberation in an assembly hall called the Santhagara. Representatives debated, and votes were cast using Salakas (sticks). The process was overseen by a Salaka Gahapaka, who ensured fair voting. This shows the presence of structured political institutions even in ancient republics.
Q5. Who among the following was a contemporary of Buddha and ruled over Kosala?
- Chetaka
- Bimbisara
- Udayana
- Pasenadi (Prasenajit)
Correct Option: 4. Pasenadi (Prasenajit)
Explanation: Pasenadi (also known as Prasenajit) was the king of Kosala and a contemporary of the Buddha. He ruled from Shravasti, an important city in ancient India. He is known for having interacted with Buddha, and his court was an important center of Buddhist discourse. He also had political ties with Magadha through a matrimonial alliance.