The Godavari River is called the 'Dakshan Ganga' due to its length and significance in South India. It is the second-longest river in India.

Savitribai Phule Pune University (formerly University of Pune) was established in 1949, but Jyotiba Phule University was established in 1955.

Dnyaneshwar, Ramdas, and Tukaram were all prominent Marathi saints who contributed significantly to the Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra.

Mumbai is the capital and largest city of Maharashtra, located on the western coast of India.

The Western Ghats form the boundary between Maharashtra and Karnataka, and are also known as the Sahyadri Mountains.

# Solution: Gateway of Maharashtra

Asirgarh Fort earned its strategic epithet due to its location at the confluence of the Narmada and Denwa rivers, serving as the principal entry point to Maharashtra from northern regions.

Step 1: Identifying the Fort's Strategic Location

Asirgarh Fort is situated in Burhanpur district on the Narmada River, positioned at the historical boundary between Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. This location made it the primary gateway through which armies, traders, and travelers entered Maharashtra from the north.

Step 2: Understanding the Historical Significance

The fort was constructed in the 16th century and played a crucial defensive role controlling trade routes and military passages. Its nickname "Gateway of Maharashtra" reflects its historical importance as the main entry point to the region, controlling access across the Narmada River corridor.

Final Answer: (D) Asirgarh Fort — Known as the "Gateway of Maharashtra" due to its strategic position at the northern frontier and its control over the major route into the state.

While rice is grown, Maharashtra is primarily known for sugarcane, cotton, and jowar (sorghum) production.

# Total Area of Maharashtra

Maharashtra is one of India's largest states, and its total area is a fundamental geographical fact important for MPSC aspirants.

Step 1: Understanding Maharashtra's Geographical Area

Maharashtra is the second-most populous state in India and covers a significant portion of the Deccan Plateau region in western India. The state's total area has been officially measured and documented by the Survey of India.

Step 2: Verification with Given Options

Comparing the actual area with the provided options confirms that option (A) exactly matches the official measurement recorded in government records and geographical surveys.

The approximate total area of Maharashtra is 307,713 square kilometers (Option A).

Jyotirao Phule founded the Satya Shodhak Samaj (Truth-Seeking Society) in 1873 to promote equality and social justice.

Both Ellora and Ajanta are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with ancient Buddhist caves. Ellora is famous for its rock-cut architecture with Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain caves.