Chanakya (375 BC-283 BC) was great philosopher, teacher, economist, jurist, politician, Chief Advisor and the Prime Minister of the Chandragupta Maurya Empire. He wrote Arthashashtra on the science of politics and economics. He wrote books on many things such as ethics and statecraft. He established the first Mauryan emperor Chandragupta in his rise to power and establishment of the Maurya Empire. He was instrumental in helping Chandragupta overthrow the powerful Nand Dynasty at Pataliputra, in the Magadha region.
Chanakya (Kautilya) was born into a humble Brahmin family. He received his education at Takshashila, an ancient centre of learning (Punjab, Pakistan). This institution was renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, which covered a wide array of subjects, including economics, politics, warfare strategies, medicine, and astrology. Chanakya’s thirst for knowledge and dedication to learning set the stage for his illustrious career. He was widely recognized by his pen name Kautilya. After finishing his education, Chanakya began working as a teacher in the vicinity of Takshashila and Nalanda. He married a girl named Yashodhara from his Brahmin lineage, despite her not being conventionally beautiful. One day Yashodhara decided to attend a ceremony at her brother’s house with Chanakya, and this outing exposed them to mocking remarks about Chanakya’s financial situation. She felt unhappy about the situation and suggested that Chanakya should consider seeking assistance from King Dhana Nanda to improve their financial circumstances.
One day Emperor Dhana Nanda organized an alms-giving ceremony for Brahmins, and Chanakya went to Pupphapura to attend this ceremony. Disgusted by Chanakya’s ugly appearance, the emperor ordered him to be thrown out of the assembly. The emperor ordered his arrest, but Chanakya escaped. Chanakya provided Chandragupta with intensive military training, shaping him into a skilled warrior. Chanakya’s ultimate goal had always been to overthrow the Nanda’s dynasty, and establish the Maurya Empire to take revenge from the King Dhana-Nanda. Chanakya’s death remains a mystery, one account suggests that he died from self-imposed starvation, while another narrative attributes his passing to a political conspiracy during’s Bindusara’s rule. Those who see revenge often meet their own downfall. It happened with Chanakya because he was very revengeful.
Chanakya Quotes:
An individual should not be too honest, as some people may take advantage of your honesty.
Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions: Why am I doing it? What might the result be? Will I be successful? Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, then go ahead.
Once you start working on something, don’t be afraid of failure and don’t abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest. Dedicated efforts lead to happiness.
A person can become a fool by not asking questions. Chanakya implies that not asking questions can lead to ignorance.
The biggest Guru is your own soul. Self reflection and self awareness is a source of guidance and wisdom.
Education is your best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats beauty and youth.
A person who is overly attached to his family members experiences fear and sorrow, as the root of all grief. Thus one should discard attachment to be happy. Too much attachment leads to suffering and detachment leads to happiness.
Chanakya Niti is a collection of ancient techniques from the Arthashastra offering valuable insight into ethics, leadership, strategy, and more. Its timeless wisdom continues to inspire and guide people in various aspects of life. It can help individuals make better decisions, navigate challenges, and lead a more balanced and virtuous life. However, one shouldn't believe it blindly because his revengeful Niti may not always prove to be the best option.
Three rules of Chanakya:
  1. Maintain discretion.
Preserve your wealth and resources.
Cultivate alliances for strength.
Image Credits: https://www.naguleswaran.com/265/chanakya-the-administrator/
Comments