UPSC Prelims 2000 Q23: Ancient History – Post - Mauryan & Foreign Invasions
Which one of the following dynasties was ruling over North India at the time of Alexander's
invasion?
- (a) Nanda
- (b) Maurya
- (c) Sunga
- (d) Kanva
Answer: (a) Nanda
Explanation
Dynasty ruling North India at the time of Alexander's invasion
| Dynasty | Period |
|---|---|
| Nanda | c. 345-321 BCE — Dhana Nanda ruled Magadha when Alexander came (327-325 BCE) |
| Maurya | From c. 321 BCE (Chandragupta Maurya) |
| Shunga | From c. 185 BCE (Pushyamitra) |
| Kanva | From c. 73 BCE |
Alexander invaded north-west India in 327-325 BCE.
The strongest power in the north was then the Nanda dynasty of Magadha under Dhana Nanda, whose large army was one reason Alexander's soldiers refused to go beyond the Beas.
The Mauryas took over only around 321 BCE, after Alexander left.
Answer: (a) Nanda.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The Nandas ruled Magadha during Alexander's invasion.
- (b) Incorrect. The Maurya dynasty began around 321 BCE, after Alexander left.
- (c) Incorrect. The Shungas came around 185 BCE.
- (d) Incorrect. The Kanvas came around 73 BCE.
Key point
Alexander fought Porus at the Battle of the Hydaspes (Jhelum), 326 BCE.
Remember
Alexander's invasion: Nanda rule in Magadha.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the Mauryas because Chandragupta is linked with Alexander's time.
- Not knowing that Dhana Nanda ruled Magadha then.
- Mixing up the order Nanda → Maurya → Shunga → Kanva.
Exam tip
Magadha order: Haryanka, Shishunaga, Nanda, Maurya.
Sources
- R. S. Sharma — India's Ancient Past, chapter 'Iranian and Macedonian Invasions'
- NCERT Class VI — Our Pasts I, chapter 'Kingdoms, Kings and an Early Republic'