The correct answer is option 1: Maurya. The Maurya dynasty was one of the earliest and oldest dynasties in ancient India, founded by Chandragupta Maurya in the 4th century BCE. This dynasty is known for ruling a large empire that encompassed much of the Indian subcontinent. Chandragupta`s successors, such as Ashoka the Great, played a significant role in shaping ancient Indian history. The Maurya dynasty is considered the oldest because it predates the other options given in the question. The Gupta dynasty (option 2) came into power in the 4th century CE, the Kushan dynasty (option 3) existed from the 1st to 3rd century CE, and the Kanva dynasty (option 4) ruled briefly in the 1st century BCE. Therefore, option 1, the Maurya dynasty, is the oldest dynasty among the given choices.