U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2012

Historical Geography of North India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Mahodaya is an old name of

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Kannauj became the 'Imperial City' of India after the decline of Pataliputra. Its possession was considered the ultimate symbol of sovereignty in North India.

Explanation Historical texts from the Gurjara-Pratihara era, particularly during the reign of Mihira Bhoja, refer to the city of Kannauj as *Mahodaya
or *Kanyakubja*.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Kannauj replaced Patna (Patna) as the geopolitical center of gravity during the reign of Harshavardhana.
Logic 2: It remained the prize for which the Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas fought for over two centuries (the Tripartite Struggle).

Active Recall

Question

Why was Kannauj so strategically important?

Answer

Located in the heart of the Ganga-Yamuna Doab, it offered control over fertile agricultural lands and the lucrative riverine trade routes.

Core Insight

The name 'Mahodaya' reflects the city's status as a 'place of great prosperity' and the spiritual heart of North Indian kingship.