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U.P. Lower (Spl) (Pre) 2008

Ancient Capitals

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following places was the capital of Satvahanas?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Capital cities in the Deccan were often chosen for their proximity to major rivers, which facilitated agricultural surplus and riverine trade.

Explanation Pratisthan (also known as Paithan) was the initial capital of the Satavahana dynasty. It is located on the banks of the Godavari River in present-day Maharashtra.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Pratisthan served as a vital hub connecting trade routes between Northern and Southern India.
Logic 2: Nagarjuna Konda was a later significant center, but Pratisthan was the foundational seat of power.
Logic 3: Pataliputra was the Mauryan capital, and Shakal (Sialkot) was the seat of Indo-Greek/Huna rulers.

Active Recall

Question

To which city did the Satavahanas eventually shift their influence?

Answer

As the empire expanded eastward, Amaravati in the Guntur district became a major secondary capital and religious center.

Core Insight

The choice of Pratisthan on the Godavari allowed the Satavahanas to control the fertile black soil regions and the interior trade of the Deccan plateau.

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