The Mahajanapadas Period (600 BC – 325 BC)
The Mahajanapadas period in ancient Indian history refers to the time between roughly 600 BCE to 325 BCE. It was a crucial phase in the evolution of Indian society and politics, characterized by the emergence of sixteen powerful states or kingdoms known as Mahajanapadas.
During this period, the Vedic society, which was primarily tribal and decentralized, began to transition into a more complex political structure marked by the rise of large territorial states. These Mahajanapadas were located across the northern and eastern parts of the Indian subcontinent, primarily in the Indo-Gangetic plains.
The anguttara Nikaya of Suttapitaka, Mahavastu and Bhagavati sutta mentions the list of 16 Mahajanapadas
They were of two types:-
Non- Monarchial/Republican
States Kamboj, Kuru, Koliyas, Malla, Moriya, Shakya, Vajji, Lichhavis, Bhaggas, Kalams, Videhas, Jnatrikas.
Monarchical States- Anga, Avanti, Chedi, Kashi, Kosala, Gandhara, Magadh, Matsya, Surena, Vatsa.
- Asmaka was the southernmost Mahajanapadas.
- Vatsa was earlier a kuru clan.
- Vajji was confederacy of eight republican clans.
The Republican States
The republics unlike the monarchies were ruled by tribal oligarchies and the Brahmanas had no place
The ruling class belonged to the same class and varna. Lichchhavis ae said to be the oldest republic in the world.
Administration
Raja (King), uparaja (vice king), senapati (commander) and Bhandagarika (treasurer)
Mahajanapadas and their Capitals
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