Q. In the context of the society during the Magadha Empire, the term ‘Grihapatis’ and ‘Vessa’ primarily signify:

[A] Hereditary officials responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining the village records, respectively.

[B] The two dominant castes (Kshatriya and Vaishya) that held exclusive rights to land ownership and trade.

[C] Wealthy peasants who owned land and the specialized streets where merchants conducted their trade, respectively.

[D] Members of the royal court (Parishad) and the specialized military units, respectively.

Answer: C
Notes:

Explanation:

  • The notes clarify the societal and economic structure: ‘Grihapatis’ referred to the rich peasants or householders who owned their land. ‘Vessa’ denoted the Merchants Street, indicating the physical grouping and specialization of trade within the emerging urban centres.
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