The Date of the First Maurya Emperor
Summary
This article seeks to establish the accession date of Chandragupta, the first Maurya emperor. It emphasises that fixing this date provides the earliest firm chronological anchor in Indian history. Surveying Puranic dynastic lists, Sri Lankan chronicles, Jain traditions and Greek sources, the author calculates the duration of the Nanda dynasty and assesses rival chronologies placing the accession between 324 and 313 B.C. Evidence from Alexander’s invasion, Seleucus’s treaty and the lengths of reigns in Puranas is scrutinised. Harmonising these sources, the author argues that Chandragupta likely ascended the throne in 324 B.C.; later dates lack support. The article also touches on later Mauryan chronology and uses the accession date to infer dates for early Satavahana rulers.
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Conclusion
Based on a critical assessment of Puranic, Buddhist and classical sources, the author concludes that the Maurya dynasty began in 324 B.C. The date of 313 B.C. lacks direct evidence, while the earlier date coherently aligns dynastic totals, Ceylonese tradition and Greek references and thus serves as a reliable pivot for early Indian chronology.