Explanation: East Bengal was a region in the Indian subcontinent that existed before the partition of India in 1947. It was part of the larger Bengal province, which was divided into East Bengal and West Bengal. East Bengal was predominantly Muslim and became a part of Pakistan after the partition, eventually leading to the formation of Bangladesh in 1971.
The capital of East Bengal was Dacca, which is now known as Dhaka. Dacca was a significant city in the region, serving as the administrative and cultural center. It was chosen as the capital due to its strategic location and historical importance. The city has a rich history dating back to the Mughal era and was a major center for trade and commerce.
Understanding the historical context of East Bengal and its capital is crucial for comprehending the political and administrative divisions of the Indian subcontinent. The partition of India in 1947 led to significant changes in the region, including the division of Bengal into East and West Bengal. East Bengal became East Pakistan and later Bangladesh, while West Bengal remained a part of India.
It is important to note that the name Dacca was officially changed to Dhaka in 1983, reflecting the Bengali pronunciation of the city's name. This change is significant in understanding the historical and cultural evolution of the region.
In summary, Dacca, now known as Dhaka, was the capital of East Bengal. This fact is essential for understanding the historical and political landscape of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the context of the partition of India and the subsequent formation of Bangladesh. The other options, Assam, Bihar, and Orissa, were not the capitals of East Bengal and represent different regions in the Indian subcontinent with their own historical and administrative significance.