Let us Explore (Page 70) The most powerful of these new states were Magadha, Kosala, Vatsa and Avanti. Looking at the map, can you identify Class 7

Let us Explore (Page 70) The most powerful of these new states were Magadha, Kosala, Vatsa and Avanti. Looking at the map, can you identify Class 7

Question 1.

The most powerful of these new states were Magadha, Kosala, Vatsa and Avanti. Looking at the map, can you identify their capitals? Also, how many can you match with Indian cities of today? Class 7

Answer:

Capitals of the Mahājanapadas:

1. Magadha: The capital of Magadha was Rajagriha (also known as Rajgir). This city is located in part of today's Bihar.
2. Kosala: The capital of Kosala was Shravasti. It is in part of today's Uttar Pradesh.
3. Vatsa: The capital of Vatsa was Kaushambi. It is in part of today's Uttar Pradesh.
4. Avanti: The capital of Avanti was Ujjayini (or Ujjain). It is in part of today's Madhya Pradesh.

Question 2.

Compare this map with the map of the regions mentioned in the Mahabharata (see Fig. 5.4 in the chapter 'India, That Is Bharat' in Grade 6) and list the names common to both maps. What do you think this implies?

Answer:

When comparing the map of the mahajanapadas with the regions in the Mahabharata, we may find names like Magadha, Kosala, and Vatsa appearing on both maps. This suggests a continuity of cultural and political significance in these areas over centuries. It implies that these regions maintained their importance in Indian civilisation, influencing social, political, and economic structures from ancient times to the present.