Question

What was the first capital of Magadha?
A)Patliputra
B)Vaishali
C)Girivaraja (Rajgriha)
D)Champa

Answer 1

Hint: Magadha was an ancient Indian kingdom that was located in the southern Bihar, and was counted as one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas, that is, 'Great Kingdoms' of ancient India. Magadha played a crucial role in the development of Jainism and Buddhism, the Maurya Empire and Gupta Empire which are two of India’s greatest empires, originated in Magadha.

Complete answer:
Let us discuss each option individually in detail to figure out the correct answer.

Patliputra: Patliputra, is an ancient city located adjacent to modern day Patna. It was established by Magadha ruler Udayin. This was not the first capital of Magadha. Therefore, this is not the correct option.

Vaishali: Vaishali was not the first capital of Magadha. Therefore, this is not the correct option.

Girivaraja (Rajgriha): The city of Rajgriha, historically known as Girivraja was an ancient city which is located in the Nalanda district of Bihar. It was the first capital of Magadha. Therefore, this is the correct option.

Champa: Champa was not the first capital of Magadha, therefore this is not the correct option.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C)

Note: The city of Rajagriha is notable in Jainism and Buddhism. Tirthankar Munisuvrata, the 20th jain guru was born here, and this place is closely associated with the arihant Mahavira and Gautama Buddha. Both Lord Mahavira and Lord Buddha taught here during the 6th and the 5th century BC, Buddha was offered a forest monastery here by king Bimbisara. Also, the city of Rajgir became one of the Buddha's most important preaching locations.