Previous Year Question
During the reign of Harshavardhana, which of the following became the new capital after it was shifted from Thanesar?
A.
Kannauj
B.
Pataliputra
C.
Magadha
D.
Kurukshetra
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Harshavardhana belonged to the Pushyabhuti dynasty, whose early political centre was Sthaneshvara (Thanesar). Harsha later made Kanyakubja, present-day Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh, his imperial capital. Kannauj developed into an important political and cultural centre of northern India during his reign.
Fact: The ancient name of Kannauj was Kanyakubja; it was also known as Mahodaya. The Chinese pilgrim Xuanzangvisited Kannauj during Harsha's reign, and a major religious assembly was held there in 643 CE.