1. UPSC Civil Services
  2. Preliminary
  3. Ancient History
  4. Which one of the following

Which one of the following was initially the most powerful city state of India in the 6th century B.C. ?

(a) Gandhar
(b) Kamboj
(c) Kashi
(d) Magadh

Ans: (d) Magadh

Explanation: Of the 16 Mahajanapadas, Magadha, Kosala,Vatsa and Avanti were more powerful. They foughtamongst themselves for years and ultimatelyMagadha emerged victorious under Bimbisara(Haranyak dynasty) in 6th C BC..