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17 Mar 2026
GS Paper 5
UP Special
Q. Prayagraj is one of the historic and mythological cities of India with glorious past and present. Discuss. (125 words) 8
Approach:
- Briefly introduce Prayagraj emphasizing its cultural and religious significance.
- Discuss its historical importance, mythological relevance. Mention its present significance in education, governance, and festivals like Kumbh Mela.
- Conclude by emphasizing the city's enduring legacy, blending history and modernity, making it a vital cultural and religious center.
Answer:
Introduction
Prayagraj, one of Uttar Pradesh's largest cities, is situated at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati, known as Triveni, a sacred site in Hinduism.
Body
Historically known as Prayag, it was an early Aryan settlement and is revered in Hindu scriptures like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed the 'Prakrista Yag' here, earning it the title Tirth Raj—the King of Pilgrimage.
The city has deep mythological connections, being the birthplace of deities like Som, Varuna, and Prajapati. Ancient sages like Bharadwaj, Durvasa, and Pannas resided here, with Bharadwaj reportedly teaching 10,000 disciples around 5000 BCE. Nearby Kaushambi flourished under the Vatsa and Maurya dynasties, and Emperor Ashoka erected a pillar with inscriptions in the 3rd century BCE.
In 1575, Emperor Akbar renamed the city Ilahabas, later becoming Allahabad. It served as a key Mughal provincial capital and was later controlled by the Marathas before being ceded to the British in 1801. The city played a vital role in the 1857 Revolt and the Indian freedom struggle, with Mahatma Gandhi launching his non-violent resistance movement here. Prayagraj has produced several Prime Ministers, including Jawahar Lal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri Shastri, and Indira Gandhi.
Conclusion
Prayagraj is an administrative and educational hub, housing the Allahabad High Court, UP Board, MNIT, IIIT, and the University of Allahabad. A center of learning and political consciousness, it remains a vibrant and historically significant city.
