Which of the following statements with regard to Kasi and Vajji Mahajanapadas is/are correct? 1. Kasi on the banks of the Ganga, was renowned for textile production before being absorbed by Kosala. 2. Vajji functioned as an oligarchic monarchy with its capital at Vaishali. 3. Lord Mahavira, belonging to the Jnatrika clan, was born at Kundagrama near Vaishali, which also hosted the Second Buddhist Council. Select the answer using the code given below: |ForumIAS

[A] 1 and 3 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Notes:

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Kasi was an early dominant power in the Ganga valley famous for cotton textiles and silk. It was later annexed by Kosala.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Vajji was a confederacy of eight clans (including the Lichchhavis and Jnatrikas) governed as a Gana-Sangha (Republic) from Vaishali.
Statement 3 is correct: Vardhamana Mahavira was born at Kundagrama near Vaishali to the Jnatrika clan chief. Vaishali was also the venue of the Second Buddhist Council convened under King Kalasoka (Shishunaga dynasty) around 383 BCE.