Who was the first non-Kshatriya king to build a vast empire in Magadha and founded the Nanda dynasty?
Correct Answer: Mahapadma Nanda
Subject: history
- Bimbisara
- Dhanananda
- Mahapadma Nanda
- Ajatashatru
Explanation: • Mahapadma Nanda (~345–329 BC) — first non-Kshatriya (Shudra origin) to establish a pan-Indian empire
• Title: 'Sarva-Kshatrantaka' (Destroyer of all Kshatriyas)
• Overthrew the Shishunaga dynasty
• Empire extended from Bengal to Punjab and south to Deccan
• His massive army caused Alexander's troops to mutiny at Beas River (326 BC)
• Dhanananda = last Nanda king — overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya with Chanakya's guidance