Which of the following Mahajanapadas was uniquely characterized by a "Gana-Sangha" (Oligarchic/Republican) form of government rather than a hereditary monarchy?

Question

The correct answer is [B] Vrijji.

Vrijji (Option B – Correct): The Vrijji (or Vajji) confederacy, with its capital at Vaishali, was the most prominent Gana-Sangha. Unlike the monarchies of Magadha or Kosala, it was governed by a council of "Rajas" (heads of clans). The Lichchhavis were the most powerful clan within this confederacy.
Asamka (Option A – Incorrect): Located on the banks of the Godavari, it was the only Mahajanapada in South India. It followed a monarchical form of government.
Vatsa (Option C – Incorrect): With its capital at Kaushambi, Vatsa was a powerful monarchy. Its most famous ruler was King Udayana, a contemporary of the Buddha.
Anga (Option D – Incorrect): Located to the east of Magadha with its capital at Champa, it was a monarchy that was eventually annexed by Bimbisara of Magadha.

GKToday Admin · Accepted Answer

Vrijji The correct answer is [B] Vrijji.

Vrijji (Option B – Correct): The Vrijji (or Vajji) confederacy, with its capital at Vaishali, was the most prominent Gana-Sangha. Unlike the monarchies of Magadha or Kosala, it was governed by a council of "Rajas" (heads of clans). The Lichchhavis were the most powerful clan within this confederacy.
Asamka (Option A – Incorrect): Located on the banks of the Godavari, it was the only Mahajanapada in South India. It followed a monarchical form of government.
Vatsa (Option C – Incorrect): With its capital at Kaushambi, Vatsa was a powerful monarchy. Its most famous ruler was King Udayana, a contemporary of the Buddha.
Anga (Option D – Incorrect): Located to the east of Magadha with its capital at Champa, it was a monarchy that was eventually annexed by Bimbisara of Magadha.

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