__________is an example of ancient towns in India.

Fill in the blank with the correct option.

The correct option is Madurai.

Let us understand why Madurai is classified as an ancient town in India by looking at the historical background of the options provided:

1. Madurai:
Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India, with a history dating back over 2,500 years. It was the capital of the Pandyan dynasty and has been a major hub for trade, culture, and learning since ancient times. It is mentioned in ancient texts by writers like Megasthenes (3rd century BCE) and Kautilya. Thus, it is a prime example of an ancient town.

2. Hyderabad:
Hyderabad was founded in the late 16th century (specifically in 1591 CE) by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. It is classified as a medieval/modern city rather than an ancient one.

3. Kolkata (Calcutta):
Kolkata was established as a major trading post by the British East India Company in the late 17th century (around 1690 CE). It is a classic example of a modern colonial town.

4. Delhi:
While Delhi has ancient roots (associated with Indraprastha), the modern urban form of Delhi is largely associated with medieval capitals (like the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire) and colonial expansion (New Delhi). In typical historical classifications of Indian towns, Madurai is uniquely highlighted as an outstanding example of a classical ancient temple town that has retained its character since antiquity.