Chandragupta Maurya (c. 321/322–297/298 BCE), called Sandrokottos in Greek sources, was the founder of the Mauryan dynasty and the first ruler to bring large parts of the subcontinent under a single authority. Born c. 340 BCE, his empire laid the base for expansion by his son Bindusara and grandson Ashoka.

Origins and Early Life

• Buddhism and Jainism texts believe Chandragupta was a Kshatriya from the Moriya clan.
• Buddhist scriptures, such as the Mahavamsa, identify him as a Kshatriya from the Moriya lineage, linking his family to that of the Gautama Buddha's Shakya noble family.
• Similarly, Jain traditions, like the Tiloyapannatti and Rajavalikatha, also portray him as a member of a high Kshatriya family, with some traditions even suggesting Lord Mahavira preached among the Mauryas.

He grew up amid political instability: the Nandas dominated Magadha, while Alexander’s invasion unsettled the northwest. His meeting with Chanakya (Kautilya/Vishnugupta), author of Arthashastra, proved decisive as he trained Chandragupta in politics and military strategy.

Rise to Power

•  Around 321 BCE, with Chanakya’s support, Chandragupta overthrew Dhana Nanda and made Pataliputra his capital.
•  By 305 BCE, he confronted Seleucus I Nicator. The treaty gave Chandragupta territories in the Indus–Afghanistan region, while Seleucus received 500 war elephants.
•  This pact also established marital and diplomatic ties, marking the start of Indo-Greek relations.

Administration and Governance

Chandragupta built a centralized monarchy advised by a council of ministers, with Chanakya as the key figure.

• Empire divided into provinces under princes/governors, further into districts and villages.
• Espionage and intelligence networks ensured order and loyalty.
• Economy: Agrarian base with land tax; flourishing trade supported by roads, communications, and security.
• Sources:
  • Arthashastra on taxation, justice, and governance.
  • Megasthenes’ Indica describing Pataliputra, social order, and administration.

Religious Inclinations and Later Life

Later Jain tradition says Chandragupta abdicated in favor of Bindusara, moved with monk Bhadrabahu to Shravanabelagola, adopted Jainism, practiced asceticism, and ended his life through Sallekhana.

Legacy and Significance

Chandragupta’s achievements include:

• Ending Nanda rule and unifying Magadha.
• Expanding territory through victory over Seleucus.
• Creating the first large centralized empire in northern India.
• Establishing trade, diplomacy, and stable governance. His dynasty flourished with Bindusara and Ashoka, making him a pivotal figure in ancient Indian history.

Conclusion

Chandragupta Maurya defeated the Nanda dynasty with the assistance of his guru Kautilya (Chanakya). He invaded Magadha and defeated the last Nanda emperor, Dhananada, and established the Maurya Empire. His reign ushered in stability, prosperity and foreign relations with foreign powers. He later took a turn to Jainism and proceeded to Shravanabelagola, leaving behind the legacy that Bindusara and Ashoka had carried on.