Vajji (Vaishali)
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Overview
Vajji was a mahajanapada and a republican confederacy (gana-sangha) of eight clans, including the Lichchhavis, with Vaishali as its capital. It was ruled by an assembly of clan elders.
The Vajji confederacy brought together several clans, of which the Lichchhavis were the most powerful.
Decisions were taken in an assembly, and Buddhist texts describe the seven conditions of welfare that kept the Vajjis strong.
Ajatashatru of Magadha defeated the Vajjis after a long war, using the strategy of his minister Vassakara to divide them.
The confederacy had eight or nine clans.
It was one of the sixteen mahajanapadas.
It was located north of the Ganga.
Its republican form is often contrasted with Magadha's monarchy.
Geography and key facts
- Mahajanapada
- Republic of eight clans
- Capital: Vaishali
- Lichchhavis most powerful clan
- Seven conditions of welfare
- Conquered by Ajatashatru
Why it matters for UPSC
Asked on republics and mahajanapadas.
Note for UPSC
A republican confederacy (gana-sangha).
Mahajanapadas are asked with their capitals and present-day regions; positions are approximate.
Asked in PYQs
No question in our Prelims bank names Vajji (Vaishali) yet.
Key facts
- Type
- Mahajanapada
- State / UT
- Bihar
- Coordinates
- 26.014°N, 85.109°E
From the Map Explorer data; positions are for orientation.
In the lessons
More mahajanapadas (approx.) nearby
Other places in Bihar
All mahajanapadas (approx.) · Revision list · Most asked in PYQs