Step 1: Concept
The Kusana Empire was a major power in ancient India and Central Asia. It had several important capitals spread across its vast territory.
Step 2: Meaning
Capital cities are significant because they often serve as centers for administration, culture, and trade during an empire's reign.
Step 3: Analysis
Let us examine each option provided:
B. Ai-Khanoum in Bactria: This was a major city of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, not the Kusana Empire.
C. Gupta in North India: The Guptas were another imperial dynasty that ruled over parts of India but are distinct from the Kusana Empire.
D. Purushapur (Peshawar) in NW Pakistan: This city was indeed a capital of the Kusana Empire, serving as an important center for trade and administration.
E. Mathura in India: While Mathura was significant during the Kusana period, it is not listed among their primary capitals.
The correct answer must include cities that were specifically the capitals of the Kusana Empire. The options provided indicate that only Bactria (Ai-Khanoum), North India (Gupta), and NW Pakistan (Purushapur) are relevant to the Kusana Empire, with Purushapur being explicitly listed as a capital.
Step 4: Conclusion
The correct choice is A, which includes Ai-Khanoum in Bactria, Purushapur (Peshawar) in NW Pakistan, and Mathura in India.
Final Answer: (A)