From among the following Mahajanapadas, identify the gana/sangha (oligarchy): [CDS 2022(I)]
A. Magadha
B. Vajji
C. Avanti
D. Kosala
Answer: Vajji
Option b is the correct answer.
Vajji was a Mahajanapada in ancient India that was known for its unique political system based on a republican form of government called "gana" or "sangha." The Vajji sangha was an oligarchic system where power was shared among a group of ruling clans or families. It had an assembly known as the Vajji Mahasabha, which consisted of representatives from various clans and made decisions through a democratic process. The Vajji sangha is mentioned in Buddhist and Jain texts as an example of a well-governed republic in ancient India.
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Few facts about Mahajanpadas:
Magadha: Located in present-day Bihar, it was one of the most powerful Mahajanapadas, known for its strategic location and strong political influence.
Kosala: Located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, it was an important Mahajanapada ruled by King Prasenajit and later by King Pasenadi.
Vajji: Located in present-day Bihar and Nepal, it was a confederation of several tribes known for their republican form of government.
Avanti: Located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, it was ruled by King Nandivardhana and later by his son King Pradyota.
Gandhara: Located in present-day Afghanistan and Pakistan, it was a region known for its rich culture and strategic position along trade routes.
Kashi: Located in present-day Varanasi, it was a prosperous Mahajanapada known for its vibrant trade and religious significance.
Kamboja: Located in present-day Afghanistan, it was a region inhabited by the Kambojas, who were known for their martial skills.
Kuru: Located in present-day Haryana and Delhi, it was an ancient Vedic kingdom associated with the Kuru dynasty and the famous Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata.
Panchala: Located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, it was a prominent Mahajanapada ruled by King Drupada and later by King Dhrishtaketu.
Matsya: Located in present-day Rajasthan, it was a kingdom associated with the Matsya Avatar (Fish Incarnation) of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology.
Shurasena: Located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, it was a region ruled by the Yadava dynasty and associated with the legends of Lord Krishna.
Assaka: Located in present-day Maharashtra, it was a Mahajanapada inhabited by the Assakas, mentioned in Buddhist and Jain texts.
Avanti: Located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, it was ruled by King Nandivardhana and later by his son King Pradyota.
Chedi: Located in present-day Madhya Pradesh, it was a Mahajanapada ruled by King Shishupala, known for his enmity with Lord Krishna.
Malla: Located in present-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, it was a confederation of republics known for their skilled warriors and fierce independence.