The first capital of the Magadha kingdom, before Pataliputra, was:

Correct answer: (b) Rajgir

Explanation

The first capital of Magadha was Girivraja, later called Rajagriha (modern Rajgir, in Nalanda district). Ringed by five hills, it was easy to defend. Bimbisara and Ajatashatru ruled from here, and the First Buddhist Council was held here soon after the Buddha's death.

Ajatashatru built a fort at Pataligrama on the Ganga, and his successor Udayin made Pataliputra the capital, which was better placed for river trade and for control of the Ganga plain.

• Vaishali was the capital of the Vajji (Lichchhavi) republic.
• Champa was the capital of Anga.
• Nalanda was a later centre of learning.