The given political outline Map of India shows six places marked as A, B, C, D, E and F. Choose the correct 'alphabet' from the options based on the given information

Which of the following places marked on the map became bustling hubs of commerce, culture, and political affairs in ancient India?

E

The correct answer is Option 4 - E

The point 'E' on the map is Mathura.

Let us retrace our steps back to the urban centres that emerged in several parts of the subcontinent from c. sixth century BCE. As we have seen, many of these were capitals of mahajanapadas. Virtually all major towns were located along routes of communication. Some such as Pataliputra were on riverine routes. Others, such as Ujjayini, were along land routes, and yet others, such as Puhar, were near the coast, from where sea routes began. Many cities like Mathura were bustling centres of commercial, cultural and political activity.