UPSC Prelims 1999 · General Studies

Question 63: History and Culture

Which one of the following was initially the most powerful city state of India in the 6th century B.C.?

aGandhar

bKamboj

cKashi

dMagadh

AnswerThe answer is (c).

Among the sixteen mahajanapadas of the 6th century BC, Kashi, with its capital at Varanasi, was initially the most powerful, until Kosala absorbed it. Magadha rose to dominance only later under rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru, while Gandhara and Kamboj lay in the north-west. Remember: Kashi first, then Kosala, then Magadha.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Wrong. Gandhara in the north-west was not the leading power at the start.
(b) Wrong. Kamboj, in the north-west, was not the leading power at the start.
(c) Right. Kashi was initially the most powerful.
(d) Wrong. Magadha became the most powerful only later.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1999, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.