Question

Describe the political organisation of the Aryans during the ‘Later Vedic Period

Answer 1

Instructions:
The answer must include the following points:

• Janas were replaced with bigger and powerful kingdoms.
• Kings perform various Yajnas.
• Kings become more powerful.
• Various officers were appointed to help the king.

Solution:

• Small tribal organisations of Early Vedic period expanded and became powerful and turned into large kingdoms.
• The position of Rajan (king) became stronger. He gained absolute power and his position became hereditary.
• Powerful kings performed elaborate and complex sacrifices such as Ashwamedh, Vajapeya and Rajasuya sacrifices.
• The king assumed the duties of protecting his subjects, maintaining peace and dispensing justice.
• Various officers were appointed to help the king.
• The two assemblies, Sabha and Samiti lost their importance and their powers were taken away by the king. Nevertheless, these organisations continued to exist and were dominated by the rich and influential people.