Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

History

Chapter

Ancient India: Kings, Farmers and Towns

Question:

In which century BCE did the 'Magadhan' rulers decide to shift their capital to Pataligrama and rename it Pataliputra?

Options:

Fourth century BCE

Fifth century BCE

Sixth century BCE

Seventh century BCE

Correct Answer:

Fifth century BCE

Explanation:

Each Indian city had a unique and intriguing history. For example, Pataliputra, which initially began as a village called Pataligrama. However, during the fifth century BCE, the Magadhan rulers made the significant decision to shift their capital from Rajagaha to this settlement and subsequently renamed it Pataliputra. As time passed, by the fourth century BCE, Pataliputra had grown into the capital of the illustrious Mauryan Empire, proudly standing as one of the largest cities in all of Asia. However, its prominence seemed to wane in the following years.

When the Chinese pilgrim Xuan Zang ventured to Pataliputra in the seventh century CE, he discovered it to be in ruins with a noticeably diminished population. This transformation from a once majestic and bustling metropolis to a state of ruins and sparse inhabitants unveils the changing tides of history in this remarkable city.