Q. Consider the following statements regarding the capitals of Magadha in ancient India:

1. Vaishali was originally the capital of the Vajjika League before its conquest by Magadha.
2. Rajagriha served as the capital of Magadha during the reigns of Bimbisara and Ajatashatru.
3. Pataliputra became the capital of Magadha after Rajagriha, owing to its strategic position on the Ganges.
4. Vaishali was the last capital of Magadha before the Mauryan period.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Answer: Only 1, 2 and 3
Notes: Vaishali was the capital of the Vajjika League, not Magadha; it was conquered by Ajatashatru. Rajagriha was Magadha’s capital under Bimbisara and Ajatashatru. Pataliputra replaced Rajagriha as the capital due to its strategic location. Statement 4 is incorrect because Vaishali was not the last capital of Magadha—Pataliputra was. Thus, 1, 2 and 3 are correct.