Gandhar Mahajanapada and its Capital Taxila
Ancient India featured a collection of powerful states known as the Mahajanapadas. Around the 6th century BCE, these sixteen major kingdoms significantly influenced the region's political and cultural development.
The question asks us to identify which Mahajanapada had Taxila as its capital. Let's look at the options:
- Kuru: This Mahajanapada was located in the region of modern-day Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Its capital was typically Indraprastha.
- Kasi: Situated in the area around Varanasi, Kasi's capital was the city of Varanasi itself.
- Gandhar: Located in the northwest of the subcontinent (covering parts of modern Afghanistan and Pakistan), Gandhar is historically linked with Taxila. Taxila was a major urban center and is widely recognized as a capital city of this Mahajanapada.
- Avanti: This Mahajanapada was in central India (Malwa region). Its prominent capitals were Ujjain and Mahishmati.
Taxila's Role in Gandhar
Historical records and archaeological findings confirm that Taxila was a principal city of the Gandhar Mahajanapada. Its strategic location facilitated trade and commerce, and it later became famously known as a center for higher learning, housing the ancient University of Taxila.
Considering the historical significance and geographical placement, Taxila served as the capital of the Gandhar Mahajanapada.
| Mahajanapada | Associated Region | Capital City |
|---|---|---|
| Kuru | Northern Doab | Indraprastha |
| Kasi | Eastern Uttar Pradesh | Varanasi |
| Gandhar | North-West Frontier | Taxila, Pushkalavati |
| Avanti | Malwa Region | Ujjain, Mahishmati |
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