The Mauryan Empire was founded by Chandragupta Maurya, who was a remarkable leader and strategist. He laid the foundation for one of the most powerful and expansive empires in ancient India. Here is a detailed explanation of how Chandragupta Maurya started the Mauryan Empire:

1. Background:
- During the 4th century BCE, India was divided into several small kingdoms and republics.
- The Nanda Dynasty ruled the Magadha region, which was the most powerful kingdom at that time.
- Chandragupta Maurya, born in the Maurya clan, was brought up in humble surroundings but possessed great ambition and leadership qualities.

2. Alliance with Chanakya:
- Chandragupta met Chanakya (also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta), a renowned scholar, economist, and strategist.
- Chanakya saw the potential in Chandragupta and became his mentor and advisor.
- Together, they formulated strategies to overthrow the Nanda Dynasty and establish a new empire.

3. Defeat of the Nanda Dynasty:
- Chandragupta and Chanakya formed alliances with various regional rulers who were discontented with the Nanda rule.
- They built a powerful army and devised military tactics to challenge the Nanda Dynasty.
- In 321 BCE, Chandragupta led a successful campaign against the Nanda Dynasty, defeating their forces and capturing their capital, Pataliputra.

4. Consolidation of Power:
- After overthrowing the Nandas, Chandragupta faced several rebellions and external threats from neighboring kingdoms.
- With the guidance of Chanakya, he successfully quelled these challenges and expanded his empire.
- Chandragupta adopted a policy of diplomacy and marriage alliances to strengthen his position.

5. Administrative Reforms:
- Chandragupta implemented administrative reforms to ensure efficient governance.
- He divided his empire into provinces, which were further divided into districts for better administration.
- He appointed officials to oversee taxation, law and order, and the welfare of the people.

6. Legacy:
- Chandragupta's empire extended over a vast territory, including modern-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of Afghanistan.
- His grandson, Ashoka, became one of the most renowned Mauryan emperors, spreading Buddhism and implementing policies of peace and tolerance.

In conclusion, Chandragupta Maurya, with the guidance of Chanakya, successfully established the Mauryan Empire by defeating the Nanda Dynasty, consolidating his power, implementing administrative reforms, and expanding his empire. His strategic vision and leadership laid the foundation for one of the greatest empires in ancient India.

The Maurya Empire when it was first founded byChandragupta Maurya c. 320 BCE, after conquering the Nanda Empire when he was only about 20 years old. Chandragupta extended the borders of the Maurya Empire towards Seleucid Persia after defeating Seleucus c. 305 BCE.