Dhana Nanda is considered the last ruler of which dynasty?

Correct answer: Nanda Dynasty

Dhana Nanda is traditionally regarded as the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, an important kingdom that ruled much of northern India before the rise of the Mauryas. The Nandas are associated with a powerful administration, considerable wealth, and a large army. Therefore, the correct choice is option C, Nanda Dynasty. The question asks about Dhana Nanda’s family and ruling line, not about the dynasty that came after him.

According to the commonly taught historical account, Chandragupta Maurya defeated Dhana Nanda and brought Nanda rule to an end. Chandragupta then founded the Maurya dynasty, so the Maurya dynasty was the successor, not Dhana Nanda’s dynasty. The Gupta and Pala dynasties belonged to much later periods and are unrelated to this identification. Thus, option C follows directly from the accepted historical tradition.