RAS question
The ancient city of 'Nagari' (Madhyamika), known for Kushan period ruins, is located near:
Correct answer: (B) Chittorgarh.
Nagari, the ancient city known as Madhyamika or Majhimika, lies north of Chittorgarh on the bank of the Berach River and has remains from early historical periods, including the Kushan period.
Explanation
Chittorgarh is the correct answer. Rajasthan Tourism places Nagari north of Chittorgarh, on the bank of the Berach River, and records its ancient names as Majhimika and Madhyamika. This ancient city has remains from the Mauryan, Sunga and Kushan periods. The Ghosundi and Hathibada inscriptions found in the area are counted among the earliest evidence of the Vaishnava tradition in India. These geographical and archaeological clues show that Nagari or Madhyamika was in the Chittorgarh area, not in Jaipur, Ajmer or Udaipur.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Jaipur is associated with Bairath in Rajasthan history, but Nagari or Madhyamika lies north of Chittorgarh, not near Jaipur.
- (C) Ajmer is associated here only with the Barli inscription; Nagari itself lies north of Chittorgarh.
- (D) Udaipur is not the location of Nagari; ancient Madhyamika lies north of Chittorgarh on the bank of the Berach River.
Concept
This question tests whether you can connect Rajasthan's ancient cities and archaeological sites with their old names, inscriptions, coins, excavated remains and present locations. Such links matter in RAS because they show which sites Rajasthan's political, religious and cultural history is associated with.