Which one of the following DSLRs should I go for and why? (Price doesn't matter)?

Well, one could easily say that the more expensive DSLR will perform better and have better image quality than a cheaper one of the same brand. Being the same brand is critical when making this point because there are examples of cheaper DSLRs being better cameras than more expensive ones by other brands. The comparison between Pentax and Canon or Nikon is a great example of this paradox. Pentax DSLRs cost less than Canon or Nikon, but are typically better performers.

So, in your case, the Nikon D5300 will be the better body over any D3xxx series or D5200, or D5100. The Canon 1300D will outperform any of the others that you've listed.

As good as the D5300 and 1300D are, they're still not as good as the Pentax K-S2.

You will always pay more for Canon and Nikon because of their multi-million-dollar ad and marketing campaigns, and because they're more popular. Popularity alone will mean that they, and the retailers, can charge more for less, which is exactly what you see when comparing Canon/Nikon to Pentax. The Pentax K-3 II, in comparison to equivalent Canon & Nikons, is the only one with in-boy image stabilization, which will allow you to use 3-stops lower ISOs (which is the difference between ISO 400 and ISO 3200). This will allow you to get sharper images, with much less noise, higher color and contrast. It'll also allow you to shoot better in low light because you can use any lens ever made by or for the Pentax K mount and still get a stabilized image. Even cheap lenses costing as little as $20 from the 70s will be stabilized. And considering that neither Canon or Nikon make stabilized fast primes like a 50mm f/1.4, using a Pentax with a 50mm f/1.4 will be low-light beast of a camera.

Only the Pentax is weather and dust proof. You'd need to go up to the Canon 70D before getting weather sealing which is inferior to that found in the Pentax.

Where Canon shines over Pentax and especially Nikon is their video performance and capabilities.

Here's a comparison: http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/side-by-s...

If price didn't matter, I'd go for a medium format dSLR first and if that was too much, I'd settle for a full-frame one instead.

Those you listed are all bottom-of-the-barrel models. If this is your first dSLR, avoid all of them. Entry-level refers to budget not skill. Go for a mid-level model instead like the Canon 80D, Nikon D7200 or the Pentax K-S2 for more satisfaction.

To answer your actual question: The Nikon D5300 from that list.

Why? Take a look at the Snapsort analysis in the link which I mostly agree with.

http://snapsort.com/compare/Canon-EOS-700D-vs-Niko...

If video is vitally important and you want to see the effect of settings changes in real time, then the Canon t5i (750D)

If you have the funds, come out of that list and get a Canon 70D or the new 80D. They are much nicer to use.

If price really does not matter you could go higher than any of those listed.

And you would find any of those listed good as a "first DSLR". If you have very specific requirements then possibly one model would suit best. So you need to list those specific requirements.

Pentax K-50 - you'll never look back.

Go for Jesus son. He can save you from your sins and he alone is the way to the father. Turn to him, You may not have tomorrow

Use canon. Bitches loves canon's

Whatever you choose - choose Nikon.