SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 100

The correct answer is Option 4: 5 (2nd Century BCE).
Explanation:

• Mahapadma Nanda was the founder of the Nanda dynasty, which ruled over the Magadha region in ancient India.
  He rose to prominence around the 5th century BCE, succeeding the Shaishunaga dynasty and expanding the power of Magadha.
  Mahapadma Nanda is often referred to in Indian history as the 'first empire-builder' due to his efforts to unify and expand territories across Northern India.
  The Nanda dynasty centralized administration and strengthened its military, thereby laying the foundation for future empires such as the Mauryan Empire.
  This period of Indian history is significant as it marked the inception of large-scale political entities and organized imperial rule on the Indian subcontinent.

The Rise of the Magadha Empire (Quick Revision):

• As you are interested in Indian history, it is crucial to remember the chronological order of the key dynasties responsible for the rise of Magadha:
• Haryanka Dynasty: Bimbisara and Ajatashatru (Capital: Rajagriha).
• Shishunaga Dynasty: Kalashoka (Capital: Vaishali/Pataliputra).
• Nanda Dynasty: Mahapadma Nanda (Transformed Magadha into a vast empire).
• Mauryan Dynasty: Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka (India's first pan-Indian empire).

Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: What was the earliest capital of Magadha?
Answer: Girivraja or Rajagriha.
Question: Which ruler established Pataliputra as the permanent capital of Magadha?
Answer: Udayin.
Question: Who is referred to as 'Sarvakshatrantaka' (the destroyer of the Kshatriyas) in the *Puranas*?
Answer: Mahapadma Nanda.