Correct option is A
- Chandragupta Maurya founded the Maurya dynasty by overthrowing Dhana Nanda, the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, around 321 BCE.
- Under the guidance of his mentor and advisor, Chanakya (also known as Kautilya), Chandragupta mobilized support among discontented factions to challenge Dhana Nanda’s autocratic rule.
- This event marked the end of the Nanda dynasty and the beginning of a new era in Indian history under the Maurya Empire.
- The Maurya dynasty became one of the most significant empires in Indian history, with Chandragupta Maurya expanding its boundaries substantially.
Additional Information:
- Dhana Nanda: He was known for his immense wealth, which was said to be accumulated through oppressive taxes, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among his subjects.
- Chanakya’s Role: Chanakya played a pivotal role in mentoring Chandragupta and devising strategies to defeat Dhana Nanda.
- Chandragupta’s Legacy: After his victory, Chandragupta unified much of the Indian subcontinent under the Maurya dynasty, laying the foundation for centralized governance and administration.
Other Options:
- Bimbisara: He was an earlier ruler of the Haryanka dynasty of Magadha, unrelated to Chandragupta Maurya’s conquest.
- Mahapadma Nanda: He was the founder of the Nanda dynasty and preceded Dhana Nanda. Chandragupta did not directly confront him.
- Ajatshatru: A ruler of the Haryanka dynasty of Magadha who lived centuries before Chandragupta’s time, unrelated to the Maurya dynasty’s rise.