When Alexander the Great invaded north western India, which dynasty was ruling the powerful kingdom of Magadha?

Introduction / Context:
This question connects foreign invasions with internal Indian political history in the late ancient period. Alexander s invasion of north western India took place around 326 BCE. At that time, Magadha in eastern India was already a powerful kingdom. Knowing which dynasty ruled Magadha during this invasion helps learners align timelines of Indian dynasties with major external events.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The event in focus is Alexander s invasion of India around 326 BCE.
• The question asks about the ruling dynasty of Magadha at that time.
• Options list Haryankas, Shishunagas, Nandas, and Mauryas.

Concept / Approach:
Magadha saw a succession of dynasties: Haryankas, Shishunagas, Nandas, and later Mauryas. By the time Alexander entered north western India, the Nanda dynasty under Dhana Nanda was in power at Magadha. The Maurya dynasty, founded by Chandragupta Maurya, arose only after the fall of the Nandas. Therefore, matching the correct chronological sequence is the key to solving this question.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Alexander invaded north western India around 326 BCE. Step 2: Remember the order of Magadhan dynasties: Haryankas, then Shishunagas, followed by Nandas, and then Mauryas. Step 3: Note that the Nanda dynasty represented the peak of pre Mauryan Magadhan power. Step 4: Identify Dhana Nanda as the Nanda ruler during Alexander s time, mentioned in Greek and Indian sources. Step 5: Conclude that the Nandas, not the Mauryas, ruled Magadha when Alexander arrived.

Verification / Alternative check:
Chronological tables in standard history textbooks confirm that the Nanda dynasty ruled Magadha around the time of Alexander s campaign. Chandragupta Maurya rose to power slightly later, partially using the political vacuum left by Alexander s retreat and the fall of the Nandas.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The Haryankas and Shishunagas ruled earlier and had been replaced by the Nandas by the late 4th century BCE. The Mauryas came to power only after Chandragupta overthrew Dhana Nanda, so they cannot be the ruling dynasty at the time of Alexander s invasion.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent error is to connect Alexander loosely with Chandragupta Maurya and then incorrectly assume that the Mauryas already ruled Magadha during Alexander s invasion. Remember that Chandragupta s rise came only after the decline of Nanda power.

Final Answer:
When Alexander invaded India, Magadha was ruled by the Nanda dynasty.