The ancient name of Coastal Orissa was:
Kalinga
Understanding the Ancient Name of Coastal Orissa
The question asks for the ancient name of the region known today as Coastal Orissa (which is part of the modern state of Odisha). Historically, this region held significant importance and was known by a specific name in ancient texts and inscriptions.
Identifying the Ancient Name
Let's examine the provided options:
- Kalinga: This was a powerful ancient kingdom located on the east coast of India, corresponding roughly to modern-day Odisha and parts of northern Andhra Pradesh. Its coastal location aligns with the description "Coastal Orissa". Kalinga is well-known for the Kalinga War against the Mauryan Empire led by Ashoka.
- Kaushambi: An ancient city in India, it was the capital of the Vatsa kingdom. It is located near modern-day Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh, which is in North India, far from the coast of Odisha.
- Kamarupa: An ancient kingdom that covered the Brahmaputra valley in modern-day Assam and surrounding regions in Northeast India. This is geographically distinct from Coastal Orissa.
- Khandesh: A historical region in central India, corresponding to the northwest portion of Maharashtra state and parts of Madhya Pradesh. It is inland and not on the eastern coast where Orissa is located.
Based on historical evidence and geographical location, Kalinga is the ancient name specifically associated with the coastal region that is now part of Odisha.
Comparing Ancient Regions
To further clarify, consider the locations of the other options:
| Ancient Name | Corresponding Modern Region | Location Relative to Coastal Orissa |
|---|---|---|
| Kalinga | Odisha and parts of Andhra Pradesh | Directly corresponds to Coastal Orissa |
| Kaushambi | Uttar Pradesh | North India, inland |
| Kamarupa | Assam and Northeast India | Northeast India, far from Odisha coast |
| Khandesh | Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh | Central India, inland |
This comparison clearly shows that Kalinga is the correct ancient name for the region encompassing Coastal Orissa.
Conclusion on Coastal Orissa's Ancient Name
The historical territory of Kalinga aligns geographically with modern Coastal Orissa. It was a prominent political and cultural center in ancient India, playing a crucial role in major historical events like the Kalinga War.
Therefore, the ancient name of Coastal Orissa was Kalinga.
Revision Table: Ancient Indian Regions
| Region Name | Historical Period | Location | Key Significance (if any) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalinga | Ancient India | Eastern Coast (modern Odisha, parts of Andhra) | Site of the Kalinga War |
| Kaushambi | Ancient India (Mahajanapada period) | Uttar Pradesh | Capital of Vatsa Kingdom |
| Kamarupa | Ancient India (various dynasties) | Assam and Northeast | Known for its distinct culture |
| Khandesh | Medieval India onwards | Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh | Part of various empires (Delhi Sultanate, Mughals) |
Additional Information on Kalinga and Coastal Orissa
The history of Kalinga is rich and dates back to pre-Mauryan times. It was an independent kingdom that controlled important trade routes, both land and maritime. Its resistance to the Mauryan expansion led to the famous Kalinga War around 261 BCE, which profoundly affected Emperor Ashoka and is said to have contributed to his conversion to Buddhism.
The name 'Odisha' itself is derived from 'Odra Desha', another historical region located in and around modern Odisha, which coexisted or succeeded Kalinga in different periods. However, for the ancient period and specifically the coastal part, Kalinga is the most widely recognized and significant name.
Understanding these ancient regional names is vital for studying the historical geography and political landscape of ancient India.
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List-I
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Which of the following rulers were closely associated with Yuehzhi nomadic people?
