Welcome to our Mahajanpadas MCQs page!

The Mahajanapadas, the sixteen great states of ancient India, represent a pivotal era in the subcontinent’s history. Spanning from the 6th to the 4th centuries BCE, this period is characterized by the transition from the Vedic age to a more structured political and social framework. The term “Mahajanapada” translates to “great land” or “great foot,” reflecting the significance and extent of these states. This era is also noted for its socio-economic advancements and the rise of major religious movements such as Jainism and Buddhism.

Use these Mahajanpadas MCQs to test your knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating period.

If you haven’t already, check out our detailed post on the Mahajanpadas. It’s especially useful if you’re preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, providing essential background and context.

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Question 1 (UPSC Prelims 2019):
**With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following statements is/are correct?**
1. The concept of Mahajanapadas refers to the emergence of large kingdoms or states in northern India during the 6th century BCE.
2. The capital of the Mahajanapada of Magadha was Vaishali.

Question 2 (UPSC Prelims 2005):
**Which among the following Mahajanapadas was located on the banks of the river Godavari?

Question 3:
Statement 1: The Mahajanapada of Magadha was located along the banks of the Ganges River.
Statement 2: Avanti was divided into two parts, with its capitals at Ujjayini and Mahishmati. Which of the following is correct?

Question 4:
Statement 1: The Mahajanapada of Kuru was located in the region corresponding to modern-day Delhi and Haryana. Statement 2: The capital of Kuru was Hastinapura. Which of the following is correct?

Question 5:
Statement 1: The Mahajanapada of Vajji was a confederation of eight clans, including the Licchavis.
Statement 2: The capital of Vajji was Pataliputra. Which of the following is correct?

Question 6:
Statement 1: Magadha emerged as the most powerful Mahajanapada in ancient India.
Statement 2: Bimbisara was the first king to establish the Magadha Empire. Which of the following is correct?

Question 7:
Statement 1: The Mahajanapadas are mentioned in the Buddhist and Jain texts, as well as in the Mahabharata.
Statement 2: The term "Mahajanapada" literally means "great country" or "great realm."
Statement 3: All 16 Mahajanapadas were republics with democratic governance structures. Which of the following is correct?

Question 8:
Statement 1: The Vajji confederacy was an oligarchic republic with multiple leaders known as Rajas.
Statement 2: The capital of Vajji was located at Pataliputra, a city renowned for its fortifications.
Statement 3: Vajji was one of the few Mahajanapadas with a republican form of government. Which of the following is correct?

Question 9:
Statement 1: The Matsya Mahajanapada was centered around the region of modern-day Rajasthan.
Statement 2: The Matsyas were known for their extensive maritime trade. Which of the following is correct?

Question 10:
Statement 1: The Surasena Mahajanapada had its capital at Mathura.
Statement 2: The Mahajanapada of Anga was located in the eastern part of India with its capital at Champa. Statement 3: The kingdom of Kamboja was known for its horse trade and military prowess. Which of the following is correct?