Govt Exams
The Ganges River enters Bihar from the west (from Uttar Pradesh) and flows through the state before exiting towards the east into West Bengal. It is a major geographical feature of Bihar.
Ratnasara was a senior official during Ashoka's reign and is historically documented to have been associated with Bihar. However, Megasthenes, the Greek ambassador, also visited the Mauryan court in Pataliputra (Bihar).
Madhubani (or Mithila) painting is an ancient traditional art form from North Bihar, known for its intricate geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and depictions of mythology and nature. It is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) was a non-violent movement against the exploitation of indigo farmers by British planters in East Champaran district. It was Gandhi's first major satyagraha in India.
Population = Area × Population Density = 94,163 × 1,102 = 103,795,626 ≈ 103.7 million. Bihar has one of the highest population densities in India.
Gaya is historically significant as the site of Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment. The district is thus referred to as the 'Land of Buddha' and is a major pilgrimage destination.
Ashoka's edicts were inscribed on stone pillars (sarnath pillar, etc.) and rock surfaces throughout his empire. Several of these edicts have been discovered in Bihar and are now protected archaeological monuments.
Vaishali was the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. It was also one of the earliest republics in ancient India and is mentioned in Buddhist texts.
Bihar covers an area of approximately 94,163 square kilometers, making it the third-smallest state in India by area but the third-most populous state by population.
Rajgir (ancient Rajagriha) was the capital of Magadha during the Mahajanapada period. It remained an important center until the capital was shifted to Pataliputra during the Mauryan period.