Describe the salient features of Mahajanapadas.

The main features of the Mahajanapadas are as follow:
1. Mahajanapadas were forms of early states and were mostly ruled by kings. However there were oligarchy also known as Gana and Sanghas, where group of people shared power and were collectively known as Rajas.

2. Mahajanapadas had its own capital and it was fortified. It was where the king lived.

3. Mahajanapadas developed gradually a standing armies and bureaucracy.

4. There was the system of taxation, taxes were collected fromt the masses.

5. There developed a notion where king was supposed to come from Kshatriya, with its roles and duties.