Chapter-3
Life Sketch of Kautilya
3.1. Introduction
25
3.2. Life Sketch of Kautilya
26
3.3. Main Contribution of Kautilya to The Mankind
43
3.4. Legendary Characteristics of Kautilya
45
3.5. Exact Purpose of Kautilya
45
3.6. Different Views about Kautilya
47
3.7. Conclusion
48
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.1
Introduction
(3-1. Kautilya)
In Indian history, the centuries to come and that passed by, are
recorded many great persons and legendary characters who shaped time
through their extraordinary deeds and their excellence in every skill. But among
of them, Kautilya may be the only one personality who has been respected and
accepted as a brilliant person not only by Indian scholars but also western
Scholars too. Kautilya has multi personality. We have been described as a great
teacher, shrewd statesman, devoted patriot, deep thinker, ruthless
administrator, master strategist, selfless ascetic, ideal philosopher and true
saint. He is called all-rounder because he got mastery in all the branches of
knowledge. He was well versed in commerce, warfare, Politics, Economics and
Vedas. He lived around the third century B.C. but even today his ideas and
principles show relevancy and applicability in the present day society. He is a
historical milestone in the making of India.
Kautilya is the greatest person with wisdom and knowledge. He is
considered the pioneer in the field of Economics. His foresight and wide
knowledge combined with political economics expediency helped found
Mauryan Empire. He was a key advisor and councilor of Chandragupta
Maurya, the founder of Mauryan Empire. Kautilya was chief architect of his
rise to power so he is called kingmaker too. A man full of vision; he was always
prepared for the worst. He had the guts to speak his heart out even in front of
the rulers. He himself lived such a life, refusing all adornments, compassion
towards the poor and evil to deceit when needed which shows some of his good
characteristics of nature.
Kautilya was a professor at the University of Takshashila which is
located near Peshawar in Pakistan. He was the first man to envision the first
Indian Empire by unification of the various small kingdoms in the Indian
25
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
subcontinent. His major works is Nitishastra, Chanakya Niti and Arthāŝastra.
Kautilya is India‟s most illustrious political economist of all time. He regarded
economic activity as driving force behind the functioning of any political
dispensation. Kautilya was a true statesman who bridged the gap between
experience and vision. For Kautilya, good governance was paramount.
3.2 Life Sketch of Kautilya
Life sketch of Kautilya is as following.
3.2.1 His Identity
We are generally called him Chanakya. Chanakya is derived from
his father‟s name Rishi “Chanak”. Chanakya was born to Chanak and
Chaneswari, the Maga Brahmin couple in the village of Chanak in Gola district
of Magadh. He has much capacity to author of Arthāŝastra, is generally referred
to as Kautilya. Kautilya is derived from the name of his gotra “Kotil”. Kautilya
also called Vishnugupta because of one of the oldest Sanskrit Literature to
clearly identify Chanakya with Vishnugupta. He was the writer of Vishnu
Sharma‟s Panchtantra in the 3rd century B.C. Kautilya invokes the name
Vishnu, a Hindu God, in his treatise and expresses his spiritual beliefs which are
totally Vedic in nature. One view suggests that, “The name Kautilya” is derived
from the word “kutila”. “Kutila” means vakra or crooked. Thus history has
known him through three different names: Kautilya, Chanakya and
Vishnugupta.
There have been several questions about Kautilya. Not every
historian accepts that Kautilya, Chanakya and Vishnugupta are the same
person. Some believes that Vishnugupta and Kautilya was different person.
Vishnu Sharma was a redactor of the original work of Kautilya. Some believes
that Kautilya and Chanakya have been different people.
3.2.2 His Era
Unfortunately what is genuinely known about period of Kautilya is
not proper. Thus details of his birth and life are not reliable and we have to
depend on tradition. Kautilya is estimated to have lived from 350-283 B.C.E.
Very few real historical facts about his birth and death except that he helped
Chandragupta to ascend the throne, to consolidate his empire and to unite the
Indian states for fighting against Alexander of Macedonia around 327 B.C.E. It
is almost certain that Kautilya and Chandragupta Maurya were adults. It is
quite proper to guess that Kautilya was older and wiser than Chandragupta in
order to command the respect necessary for success in destroying the Nanda
Rule. History tells us that Chandragupta Maurya established the Mauryan
Empire in the year 321 B.C.E. Kautilya was probably born around 350 B.C.E.
was very influential during Chandragupta‟s rule. This shows that Kautilya was
junior contemporary of Aristotle (384-322 B.C.E.). There is no proof that
26
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
Kautilya was affected by Aristotle‟s idea. Some historians have “questioning
about Kautilya‟s existence”.
His place of birth is not assured. Some say that he got the name
Chanakya because he was born in China. The Buddhist mentions his birthplace
as Takshashila while Jaina scripture mention his birthplace as Chanak in Gola
district of South India. According to one version, birthplace of Chanakya was
Dravida so one of the Chanakya‟s various names was Dramila. Some believes
his birthplace was Patliputra. However, Kautilya‟s birthplace will continue to
remain a disputation.
3.2.3 Early Life in Childhood
When Kautilya was born he had full set of teeth, which is a sign that
he would become a king or emperor. Kautilya‟s father, Rishi Chanak was a
learned Brahmin. He was a teacher. Being a teacher himself, he knew the
importance of education. He started teaching his son Kautilya in his early age.
In his early age, Kautilya was tutored extensively in Vedas; though he
memorized them completely at little age, that ancient time, the Vedas
considered being the toughest scripture to study. Even as a child he had
qualities of born leader. He was also taught mathematics, geography and science
along with religion. Right from his childhood, Kautilya‟s wisdom and
shrewdness was visible and effective. His favorite subject was Politics.
3.2.4 Injustice with Kautilya‟s Father
Kautilya had faced very difficult circumstances at every stage of life
from his childhood. Kautilya‟s father, Chanak was learned, noble and self
respected Brahmin. He would not allow any injustice or immortal deeds. The
corrupt and arrogant king Dhannanda did not like him naturally. The king
opposed the rightness of Chanak so he harassed Chanak‟s family for false
reasons. Chanak was put in prison by the king. He died in prison. No one raised
a voice against the injustice with Chanak. Kautilya was a very little boy that
time. He was extremely sad because of his father‟s death and injustice happened
with his family. After his father‟s death, his life was also in danger. So he left
Patliputra by taking an oath that he would return and fight against injustice
and take revenge against Dhannanda.
3.2.5 Glory of Takshashila University
Takshashila was a world famous university of all kinds of higher
education in ancient time. The university was named after the city which it was
situated. Takshashila which is later corrupted Taxila is situated near Peshawar
in Pakistan. Takshashila is given a name from Taksha who was nephew of God
Rama. The branches of studies most obtained after around in India ranged
from law, medicine, warfare and other military sciences.
27
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
(3-2. Takshashila University)
There were different range of subjects were;
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Science
Philosophy
Ayurveda
Grammar of various languages
Mathematics
Economics
Astrology
Geology
Astronomy
Surgical
Agriculture Science
Archery and Ancient and Modern Sciences.
The Vedas and eighteen Arts which included skills such as archery,
hunting and elephant lore, were taught in addition to its law school, medical
school, and school of military science. Teachers and professors were highly
knowledgeable. Even king sent their sons for higher education. About
University, it is said that a certain teacher had one hundred one students and all
of them were princes! The kings and rich people donate freely for development
of university. This reveals the grandness of the university. The university was
very popular in teaching the subject not merely theoretically but practically too.
The age of entering the University was sixteen. Ancient time, there were more
than one thousand students studied. The university offers different types of
courses period of more than eight years. From different regions and countries,
students admitted for completing graduation. Takshashila was the junction
where students of different countries met each other and exchanged their
knowledge.
Kautilya, Chandragupta Maurya and Ayurvedacharya Charak
studied at Takshashila. From the religious scripture, Takshashila is mentioned
28
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
as the place, where the king of snakes, Vasuki selected it for the spreading
knowledge on the earth.
3.2.6 Sparkling Student at Takshashila
Kautilya had his education at a famous university which was well
known those days as Takshashila. With this education his natural brilliance
sparkled like polished diamond. Kautilya received education that it goes to show
his genius ness which was helping to provide foundation for his later life, he was
disciplined, bold and brave, just like his father-Chanak. He was more intent in
Politics and Economics. In both subjects, his knowledge and cleverish were
sparkling. He was a scholar student in Takshashila and so he was a favorite
student of teachers because of his intelligence and leadership quality. He studied
all the subjects, religion and politics. He turned his education to Economics and
it remained his lifelong friend.
3.2.7 Dream of Acharya
After completing studies, Kautilya started teaching in university. He
was known as „Acharya‟. Kautilya taught subjects using the best his practical
knowledge. He not only taught various subject but also taught about values,
attitude and patriotism to his students. Many kings and aristocrats were his
student. He helped them to become bright and responsible person. Two of his
students were Bhadrabhatta and Purushdutta who acted important role for
Kautilya. His students looked him as an ideal teacher who inspired them
through being himself as a role model. His students obeyed him and were ready
to fight at any moment. Though he was a professor of university, he was hardly
interested in the administration of country and information about various kings
in Bharat.
Kautilya was the first who foresighted Bharat as a united nation. He
knew that only united Bharat could protect herself and her culture from
foreigners. Only dream of his life was happy, strong, self dependant and
prosperous Bharat.
3.2.8
Alexander-The Greek Invader
Alexander generally has known as Alexander the Great who was a
Greek king of Macedon which is a state in northern ancient Greece. He was
born in Pella in 356 BC. Aristotle tutored Alexander until the age of 16. In 335
B.C.E., Philip-father of Alexander was dead, at that time Alexander was just 20
years old. After that he became the ruler of „Macedonia‟. He wanted to become
the world conqueror and he had an ambition to win the entire world, so he
wanted to win all the kingdoms in the Middle East. By the age of thirty, he had
created one of the largest empires of the ancient world, stretching from the
Ionian Sea to the Himalayas. He was undefeated in battle and is considered one
of history's most successful commanders.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
Kautilya envisioned the impending threat of foreign invasions.
(3-3. Alexander-the Greek invader)
Alexander inherited a strong kingdom and an experienced army,
after Philip‟s death. He was awarded the generalship of Greece and used this
authority to launch his father's military expansion plans. In 334 BC, he invaded
Persian-ruled Asia Minor and began a series of campaigns that lasted ten years.
Alexander broke the power of Persia in a series of decisive battles, most notably
the battles of Issus and Gaugamela. He subsequently overthrew the Persian
King Darius III and conquered the entirety of the Persian Empire. At that
point, his empire stretched from the Adriatic Sea to the Indus River. Thus in the
4th century B.C.E., the Greeks and Iranians fought for getting the supremacy
in the world. He continued to fight in Iran for improving his soldiery
strength from 334 B.C.E. to 330 B. C. E. He won Afghanistan and Iran.
Alexander was ruling in the country in Middle East.
To fulfill his ambition, he was ready to attack Bharat. From Iran,
he marched to India, obviously attracted by its great wealth. Alexander
marched to India through the Khyber Pass in 326 B.C.E. The Greek conqueror
Alexander- the great attacked the Bharatiya sub-continent. Alexander
conquered small kingdoms one by one. Among the rulers of territories, two
were well known; Ambhi, the prince of Taxila and Porus whose kingdom lay
between the Jhelum and Chenab. Ambhi submitted to the invader, increase his
army and replenished his treasure. When he reached Jhelum, Alexander met
from Porus the first and the strongest resistance. Alexander crossed the Indus
and fought and won an epic battle against King Porus, who ruled a region in the
Punjab, in the Battle of the Hydaspes in 326 BC. Although Alexander defeated
Porus, he was impressed by his bravery and courage of the Indian king, so he
restored his kingdom to him. Then he advanced as far as Beas River. Seleucus
was a great warrior of Europe. Seleucus was trying to attack India and he was
preparing his army for battle.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
(3-4. Attack of Alexander)
During that time, Bharat was divided in various kingdoms. They
fought with each other. Main states in north-western were;
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
Aspasian
Gureeans
Assakenos
Nysa
Peukelaotis
Taxila
Arsakes
Abhsara
Glauganikai
Elder Poras
Gandaris
Adraistai
Kathaioi
Kingdom of Sophytes
Phegelas
Aagalssoi
Siboi
Oxydrakai
Malloi
Xathroy
Ossadioi
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
Abstnoi
Sodrai
Massanoi
Mousikanos
Oxykanos
The kingdom of Sambos.
Foreigners attracted towards India because of her glory. It was lack
of unity among kings because of many small kingdoms. So, Alexander won them
easily.
Kautilya was aware of not only external evils but also internal evils
too. The country had been damaged from two sides, by Alexander who wanted
to rule in Bharat and some trivial kings who looked after their own interests
instead of nation‟s interests. Alexander set up a Greek- Macedonian troops and
satrapies in Takshashila. At that time, in ancient era, in Europe, Dark ages was
existed while Takshashila University stood as a small light house, therefore
foreign invaders wanted to get rule over Bharat.
3.2.9 Migration of Kautilya
Kautilya got information about the Greek invader by his spy
network. Political disturbance in western India at that time caused by Greek
invasion forced Kautilya to leave the Takshashila University. He also cleared
about Alexandra‟s plan. He also realized that Alexander and his troops were
brave and armed with full storage of weapons. In this crucial situation Kautilya
had sleepless nights. So he decided, thus saying,
“Now the time has come to leave university. The scrupulous rulers of
the country must be uprooted and there is a need to strengthen the country
politically and economically. My first and foremost duty is to save the country
of the foreign invaders and salvage this dangerous proposition.”
He envisioned his country bounded by foreigners and internal
disputation. The whole nation was divided in small kingdoms and he wanted to
unite with them because combination of all Bharatiya kings will be able to
provide strong defense against the Greek invader and at that time, Magadh was
the biggest empire in Bharat which extended from Bihar and Bengal in the east
to eastern Punjab in the west. To get a freedom from the Greek invaders, there
was urgent need for the help of Magadh king, according to Kautilya‟s scrutiny.
Thus he gave first priority to nation in place of his bright career as a professor
and he migrated to Patliputra.
Because of this step of Kautilya, the new chapter of Politics of India
had begun.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.2.10 Patliputra- A Prosperous City
(3-5. Location of Patliputra)
The city of Patliputra is known as Patna presently which is the
capital of Bihar presently. It was addressed by different names like Pushpapur,
Patliputra, Pushpanagar and Patna. At that time Patliputra was the globally
famous and historically well known capital city of Magadh. Patliputra had seen
many conditions from upper level to lower level of development.
Shishunagvanshi was the founder of Patliputra. Patliputra is situated on the
southern bank of the river-Ganga. It was described about Patliputra as a
prosperous city by Fahian in 399 B.C. Initially Patliputra was known as the
center of learning and trendy to give honor to intellectual people from various
branches of knowledge. Knowledgeable and scholars were sheltered in
Patliputra and they were invited for discussing and exchanging their new
thoughts. The city was meticulous in manufacturing necessary commodities for
common people and expensive good for wealthy people. It was rewarded true
genius so it was called the city of fortunes.
(3-6. Ancient Patliputra)
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
Kautilya started a new mission from Patliputra-this provides
evidence about the prosperity of Patliputra.
3.2.11 The King – Nanda
Patliputra was ruled by the cruel king Dhannanda. He had no
principles to rule. He was very greedy for wealth. He had no satisfaction of
money which he received. The king collected number of taxes to receive money.
People were expressing their displeasure that there was tax on various things
like hides, wood and stone too. He was a villain for a common man in Nanda
dynasty. Dhannanda collected a large amount of money and valuable
possessions. No one had imagined about his actually wealth. Nanda was
crushing and pressing the poor people. He wanted to more and wealthier and so
his national treasury would become full forever. Kautilya came at Patliputra,
there would be change. He was very kind to poor and gave gifts to them; he
gradually reduced the cruel rule. Kautilya opposed unbearable taxes on people
just to fill his personal desire. Kautilya decided to remove this system which was
without sense. As an obvious economist and very learned man, he joined the
Nanda government.
In Patliputra, Nanda king made a „Sangha‟ (trust) which had a
president and members. Sangha was kept eye on income of kingdom. King
made Sangha for mainly organization and distribution of his gifts and charities.
All Sangha members and the president were scholars in different branches.
They had powers to collect the gifts from one lake gold coins up to ten million
gold coins. Kautilya became the president of Sangha because of his genius ness,
and so he had to meet the king frequently.
3.2.12 The Oath of Kautilya
(3-7. Oath of Kautilya )
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
Chanak- Kautilya‟s father was harassed by the king although he did
not any attention about his personal hostility against patriotism. As a Sangha‟s
president, he had to meet the king often. In meeting the king saw Kautilya; he
caused revulsion at the appearance of him. There was no improvement in
conduct. This type of rude behavior was continuing towards Kautilya. To
increase the height of wall between the king and Kautilya, the courtiers
discouraged the king for friendly relation. Kautilya was purely professional so
he avoided praising the king. Being the blunt, outspoken and terse person, he
was disliked by the king. Kautilya‟s intellectuality was not liked by the king, so
Dhannanda removed Kautilya from the post of president without any reason
and he behaved utterly and insulted him. He was thrown out of the Nanda
court by the ruler, where he swears revenge. Kautilya vowed to uproot him
from his kingdom, he reacting king‟s action and keep his long shikha untangled
until he saw the death of ruler and his drunken princes and added,
“Arrogance in you has eroded the respect which I had for you. You
have removed me from the president ship for no fault of mine. You can‟t act in
a way detrimental to the demeanor of a king. You think there are no question
you? You have removed me from my rightful place and I will dethrone you!”
Quickly, he left from there and he hid his original identity.
3.2.13 The Turning Point of History
(3-8. Chandragupta Maurya)
Kautilya walked on the streets of Patliputra hurriedly after
humiliating by the king. He lost his balance on a part of grass and injured his
foot because of his quick walk. The root of grass was combined strongly from
bottom into the earth, so it was very difficult to uproot it out. In spite of the
burning sun, he sat down calmly and he looked grass and he acted quickly as an
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
intelligent person. He flew sugar syrup in grass. A young man- Chandragupta
was observing this whole incident carefully. After sometime, insects and many
ants came and ran in the direction of sugar syrup. They caused bigger damage
and destroyed the grass totally. There were not even single strand of grass left.
Chandragupta came near Kautilya and addressed him with respect
and asked, “It was just a grass, why did you do it?” Kautilya answered, “It was
poisonous and fatal and all evil things should be destroyed completely even
though they are small. This is everybody‟s duty. I would remove even a king
adopted adharma.” Kautilya asked him about his family background and
questioned, “Who are you? You seem to be worried.”
(There are many descriptions of an event which became the turning
point in Indian history how Kautilya and Chandragupta met. One description
suggests that Kautilya had bought Chandragupta. Second description suggests
that Chandragupta and Kautilya met accidentally. Third suggests that
Chandragupta that Chandragupta was also insulted by Dhannanda, so he went
with Kautilya. It is not important that how Kautilya and Chandragupta meet
but it is important that it creates history.)
3.2.14 Kautilya moved by Chandragupta‟s Tale of Woe
Chandragupta replied with explanation that he was the grand son of
King Sarvaarthasiddhi- Chandragupta. His grand father had two wivesSunanda Devi and Mura Devi. Sunanda has nine sons who were called as
Navanandas and Mura had only one son who was his father- Maurya. Maurya
had more than hundred sons. The Nandas tried to kill his father and brothers
because of jealous feelings. He killed all of them but he somehow survived. And
because of this incident, he was totally disgusted with life. He wanted to take
revenge against Nanda King. This was Chandragupta‟s painful story. Kautilya
moved by hearing tale of woe. He thought that he must help Chandragupta. He
confessed him too, “I will get you the kingship, Chandragupta.”
He recognized young Chandragupta‟s basic characteristics. He saw
his quality as a born leader from his child hood. Kautilya treated and guided
him as a student and Chandragupta was become patriot, brave and bold fighter
after some time by fulfilling his vow. Kautilya educated him from seven to eight
years. Kautilya used him to achieve his aim to uniting Bharat. He felt Magadh
comes under his control; he would easily bring the Bharat under one rule.
Kautilya and Chandragupta were incomplete without each other.
There is not availability of reliable information about
Chandragupta‟s life. Related all the details of his basic information and family
back ground are not existed. Some point describes about his life. Possibly he
may be related with Maurya.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.2.15 First Task against Kautilya and Strategy
(3-9. Meeting with the king)
Kautilya had two tasks; one was freedom from Nanda king and
second was freedom from Greek invader. But he thought their first task should
be to get rid of the Greeks. Because according to Kautilya‟s view, foreign rule
was poison, threat and exploitation to our culture, loot and poverty would be
result of foreign rule. Kautilya and Chandragupta started to work together to
get their goal.
Chandragupta becomes as strong as military commander under the
training of Kautilya. Now, there was a typical task against him because
Chandragupta had no support of any emperor. Although it would be very
difficult to collect the big army under one rule, it would be getable because
combination of great skill of knowledge of Kautilya and strength of
Chandragupta. Both decided to visit the different places and gathered soldiers.
Kautilya inspired kings of small kingdoms to unite and fight against the Greek.
Kautilya visited and warned all the kings about the result of Greek invasion.
Some kings reacted positively. They collected much soldiers but Kautilya
believed that this was not enough so he make a friendship with a king Parvataka
who is also known as Porus of Himalayan region because Porus was the only
king who would become the challenge for the Greek in the battle and they
would get the support of him.
Kautilya followed in four strategies like „treating with equality,
enticement punishment and sowing seeds of dissension.‟ Kautilya sent
Chandragupta to meet Alexander. He talked bravely and with disobedience in
his speech. Alexander ordered him for arresting him but he was escaped.
37
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.2.16 Freedom from the Greek
(3-10. March of Alexander)
Alexander won the bordering area with the support of Ambhi kingwho was Bharatiya. Ambhi joined with Alexander. Alexander divided the
kingdom and some regions. Alexander remained in India for 19 months (326325 B.C.E.), which were full of fighting. He had barely any time to organize his
of the conquests, still he made some arrangements. Most of conquered states
were restored to their rulers who submitted to his authority. But his own
territorial possessions were divided into parts. He arranged „satraps‟ to control
them. Some „satraps‟ were Greek like Nicossar, Philips and Pethan and other
were Indians like Porus, Ambhi and Abhisar.
(3-11. The Macedonian Empire)
Kings of neighboring states come together against for united action
under Chandregupta‟s leadership. So Alexander could not get the sufficient
support from all Bharatiya king. Because of Alexander‟s rule broke up into
38
Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
small divisions, he went out of India and went back to Greek. Since Alexander
left a charge, Greek satraps were always under the fear of rebellion and killing.
First Nicossar was murdered and then Philip was able and experienced Greek
invader, even when Alexander was alive and at that time Alexander was a far so
he could do nothing. Results of these incidents, Indian satraps were burning and
waited for rebelling. Alexander wanted to move still eastward, but his army
refused to accompany him. He injured very badly in returning. In 323 B.C.
Alexander- a main Greek invader died suddenly in Babylon near Baghdad, at
33 years of age. Just after Alexander's death in 323 B.C.E., Chandragupta and
Kautilya began their conquest of India by stopping the Greek invaders. In this
effort they assassinated two Greek governors, Nicossar and Philip, a strategy to
keep in mind when Kautilya gave approval of assassination. By taking much of
western India (the Punjab and the Sindh) from the Greeks and concluding a
treaty with Seleucus (Alexander the Great's Greek heir to western India), then
Greeks accepted that Bharat had gone out their rule. Thus Chandragupta and
Kautilya were able to get freedom from the Greek. They stopped series of
victory for Alexander and got freedom from him. Chandragupta and Kautilya
succeeded in bringing together almost the entire Indian subcontinent. As a
result, Chandragupta was, and is now, considered the first unifier of India and
the first genuine emperor or king of India.
3.2.17 Second Task against Kautilya
Both Kautilya and Chandragupta waited to crush Nanda Dynasty
eagerly; because of
he humiliated Kautilya and did injustice with
Chandragupta too. After death of Alexander, Kautilya turned his attention to
Nanda Dynasty. Fight of Kautilya against Nanda king was not only for his
personal insult but also he wanted to get rid of the people from uncontrolled
taxation. It was very difficult task to win, though they used strategies and
counter strategies at proper situation. The Nanda Empire had many kingdoms
and it expanded extent. His army was strong. It was made of more than two lake
soldiers, twenty thousand chariots and three thousand elephants. Nanda king
had a support of giant army and Amatya Rakshash who was his very intelligent
minister. Thus army of Nanda was powerful and hence defeating Nanda king
was very difficult. Kautilya had to make proper plans and strategies against
Nanda king for getting victory. Firstly, strategy of Kautilya was to attack from
core of the city. With this strategy, Chandragupta started his fight. He defeated
again and again.
3.2.18 Victory of the Pairs of Kautilya and Chandragupta
A spy was a person who collects information on enemy. A spy of
Kautilya was collecting information in village. He was near a hut. A woman
served a chapatti to her son in it. The son ate chapatti from the middle portion
and the edges of chapatti threw away. The mother told that type of strategy
would be employed by Chandragupta in war same as his eating pattern of
chapatti. The boy asked how it was possible. Mother replied with explanation
that instead of starting Chandragupta‟s attack from middle of kingdom, he
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
should have to begun his fight from external part of the city. His army is
encircled. These words from mother reached to Kautilya through the spy.
Kautilya impressed and learnt lessons. He changed his strategy to fight.
All information regarding this war is not available. They started
attack on the outer parts of the Magadh Empire. There were errors again. The
soldiers were not stationed. When they came forward, the people of these areas
joined together and encircled their army. And those who had been lost had to be
attacked again and again. By this mistakes, they stationed troops in regions, so
enemies would not increase and cause many difficulty. With the help of
Parvataka, Virochaka who was his brother and Malayketu who was his son
provided troubles for Nanda king. Kautilya knew the importance of Amatya
Rakshash, Kautilya made a play for Amatya by spies. In the fight, Kautilya and
Chandragupta and Kautilya stood on the one hand and the Nanda stood the
other hand.
In the war, Chandragupta faced off against Bhadrasala who was
commander of Dhannanda‟s armies. He was able to defeat Bhadrasala and
Dhannanda‟s armies in a series of battles ending with military operation in
Patliputra, and he conquered the Nanda Empire around 321 B.C.E. at last with
a excellence planning of Kautilya and bravery of Chandragupta, king
Dhannanda was thrown out and killed later. His sons and relatives also died in
the war. Kautilya wanted to destroy the lineage of the Nandas. Chandragupta
removed from the power Dhannanda with the help of Kautilya. Thus Kautilya
was an uncrowned kingmaker.
Indian tradition states that responsible for this new revolution were
master mind of Kautilya. Kautilya was a key person who had planned for the
rise of Chandragupta to power.
3.2.18 Establishment of Mauryan Empire
(3-12, Area covered by Mauryan Empire)
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
The first unified empire which covered most of parts of India and
Pakistan in present day was established. Chandragupta established a vast
empire which included not only Bihar and good portions of Bengal, but also
western and north western India and the Deccan. Leaving Kerala, Tamil Nadu
and parts of north eastern India, the Mauryas ruled over the whole of the
subcontinent. In the north-west, they held sway over certain areas which were
not included in the British Empire. Chandragupta Maurya‟s vast empire
extended from the Brahmaputra River in the east to areas beyond the Indus
River up to Hindukush ranges from the Himalayas in the north to areas beyond
the Vindhyachal ranges up to Cauvery River. His capital was Patliputra.
Besides the capital cities, there were many other important towns in those days,
such as Srinagar, Indraprastha, Mathura, Sarnath, Prayag, Kasi, Gaya, Ujjain
etc.
(3-13. Area covered by Mauryan Empire)
Kautilya is believed to be responsible for the establishment of the
first unifier Empire. The Mauryan Empire had a well organized administration
because of Kautilya. Finally Kautilya and Chandragupta had succeed in
defeating the Greek Invaders and Nanda King who had established vast empire
which covered from Bengal and Assam in the east to the Indus valley in the west
which he expanded later. Chandragupta Maurya became a king and he became
very popular because of his selfless love towards people of the kingdom and also
with the help of Kautilya a master strategist. Many small kingdoms agreed his
leadership and joined him. Those kings who did not join him themselves, after
sometimes they also became friends of Magadh because of „kutila niti’ of
Kautilya. Thus Kautilya achieved his dream of uniting Bharat. Chandragupta
ruled for many years. Kautilya remained with him as a prime minister and a
counselor and a guide too.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
(3-14. Ring Stone from Mauryan Empire)
Kautilya held the rules and principles of Magadh Empire and looked
upon the emperor till end of his life. Kautilya is praised for his political wisdom
and knowledge of all aspects of human nature. All the experts agree about that
Chandragupta and later Ashoka (265-238 B.C.E.) became a model and ideal of
efficient and successive government because of great contribution of Kautilya.
3.2.20 End of Kautilya‟s Life
There are controversies about death of Kautilya. There were
different opinions about end of Kautilya‟s life like Jaina, Budhhist and Ajivaka
(which is an ascetic school similar to Jainism).
According to Jaina scripture, Kautilya lived long life and died
around 275 B.C.E. Radhagupta was Kautilya‟s follower and student too. He
cremated him. Radhagupta got to succeed Rakshasa Katyayan as prime
minister of Mauryan Empire. And he became the main device for establishing
vast empire for Ashoka.
According to other Jaina invention, while Kautilya served as a prime
minister of Chandragupta, he began to mix little quantity of poison in food of
Chandragupta. Main intention of this deed was to protect Chandragupta from
being poisoned by opposes. Durdha was a queen- wife of Chandragupta. While
she was a pregnant, she ate the food mixed with poison. Because of eating
poisoned food, she died. Kautilya decided that the baby should exist, so he cut
the stomach of the queen and took out the baby from her belly. Kautilya gave
the name of baby- Bindusara because a drop (bindu) of poison had passed to
head of baby. He became a great king and father of Ashoka. When he became
young, Chandragupta gave up the throne and followed Jaina Saint Bharatbahu.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
He lived as a monk and died of starvation. Kautilya remained as a prime
minister of Bindusara. Subandhu was another minister of Bindusara. He
distasted Kautilya. Because of jealousy, he explained Emperor that Kautilya
was responsible for the killing of his mother. Bindusara established the truth of
this with the nurse who treated him and he became very angry to Kautilya.
Hearing the curse words from the emperor, he thought it was time to end his
life. He gave all his wealth to poor, widows and orphans. He avoided food and
drink. When Bindusara heard the complete reality of his birth later, he felt
guilty and forgave to Kautilya for his injustice. According to one version, after
this incident, Bindusara returned. Subandhu disliked Kautilya still too. He
wished that Kautilya did not come back to this city so he organized a ceremony
for Kautilya. In ceremony, by fraud he made a fire and Kautilya burned to
death.
According to other version after forgiveness of Bindusara to
Kautilya, he would not change his mind to end life. Bindusara returned to
Subandhu and killed him. Because of starvation, Kautilya died after this
incident.
According to other version, Chandragupta Maurya gave up his
throne and Kautilya joined him in passing to the last remaining stage
(vanprashtha ashram) of their life as Sanyasi. Kautilya took the king with him to
south India where both of them carried continuous meditation and achieved
Moksha.
3.3 Main Contribution of Kautilya to The
Mankind
Kautilya is considered as a diplomat non peril. Kautilya is known as
a source of pride with suggesting Chandragupta Maurya during the victory
against Nanda and defeat of Greeks and on the formation of a powerful
government which established the Mauryan Empire to almost the entire
subcontinent and a man of wisdom and unfailing strategies. He saw the country
like a person covered by problems. He worked at the totally destruction of the
problem. Kautilya had a pride as a teacher. He gave importance to teacher by
describing, “Shikshak have the ability to bring about the revolution. If he desire,
he can change a future of current generations. He can play a bigger role in
making the character based society that holds esteem value and principles. If he
desire, he can throw out the powerful kings.”
Kautilya is credited with writing an impressive work. Major and
famous works of Kautilya are Arthāŝastra and Neetishastra which is also known
as Chanakya Niti. All works of Kautilya are special because of their logically
approach and unembarrassed advocacy of politics. Kautilya got extraordinary
fame over 2300 years ago for two reasons- (1) his Sanskrit writings on Politics
and (2) the practical counsel to Chandragupta who established big empire
under his guidance. His books are translated into various languages like
English, French etc. His literature shows the depth of study of Bharatiya way of
life. In his books, he had touched all points of life.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
Kautilya is well known for his work- Arthāŝastra
(science of
material gain). This Sanskrit statecraft was written at the end of the 4 th century
B.C. but, rediscovered in 1905. Kautilya described his political ideas into the
„Arthāŝastra‟ which is called the oldest treatise in the world of political thought
and command in society. It includes encyclopedic information about political
economy and aspects of government, monetary and fiscal policies, coinage,
commerce, forests, welfare, weights and measures, agriculture, law
international relations, methods of defeating kingdom, military strategy and
duty of king, qualification of ministers, formations of villages, punishments, and
protection of citizens. Kautilya‟s Arthāŝastra is considered the first systematic
book in Economic.
Two additional works are regarded to Kautilya. Nitishastra is
Kautilya‟s second famous work. It is variously translated “The Science of
Morality”, “Common Sense” or “Ethics”. Nitishastra is a treatise on the perfect
way of life‟s principles and very simple conduct in all works of life. In other
words, the real aim of Niti- indeed the aim of life is to realize ones eternal
position. It is a collection of facts of practical wisdom for living – a code of
conduct and Indian culture showing the path of justifiable like the light of
dawn. Kautilya teaches us how to be happy in general life. Kautilya also
developed Neeti sutras about behavior. There are 455 sutras in it. Kautilya used
216 sutras to train Chandragupta in the art of rulings kingdom.
(3-15. Nalanda University)
He was a student of Takshashila University so he was impressed by it.
He felt urgent need of identical university in Magadh too, so he set up another
big University at Nalanda. Nalanda became a famous university in the world
later. Thus his works withstood the changes of time and have a place of their
own next generations too.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.4 Legendary characteristics of Kautilya
There are many legendary characteristics related to Kautilya.
Following characteristics identifies Kautilya as a legend and it identifies differs
Kautilya from common people.
1.
Kautilya had a full set of teeth, when he was born like Maharshi Ved Vyas.
This is a symbol that he would become a king. But he was a Brahmin so it
was improper. Thus his teeth were broken and it was predicted that he
would rule the empire through the king.
2.
Kautilya had the good excellence as a born leader from even as a child. His
intelligence quotient was higher than same aged children.
3.
Kautilya was blunt and directly sharp spoke to the Nanda king also so
Kautilya was thrown out of court by Nanda king. Kautilya vowed to take
revenge.
4.
He tried very hard to fulfill his vow in spite of limited resources.
5.
Kautilya tried to find a person who ruled through him. When
Chandragupta met Kautilya, Kautilya identified his Qualities as a leader.
6.
Kautilya give guidance to Chandragupta about how to establish good
empire and how to rule.
7.
Initial attempts of Kautilya to win against Nanda king failed. A spy told
Kautilya about the incident of a mother and a son. Immediately he learned
lesson from just common man and he changed strategy of fight.
8.
Kautilya added little amount of poison in Chandragupta‟s food daily
because he wanted to make him resistant to poison and he would survive
against poisonous enemy.
9.
Chandragupta did not know this. So his queen- Durdha ate food which
served for emperor. Durdha was in her ninth month pregnancy. She died
but Kautilya wanted to save the heir to throne. So he cut the belly of queen
and took out the baby, who was named Bindusara.
10.
Political rivalry against Subandhu was the reason for his death.
3.5 Exact Purpose of Kautilya
Kautilya was the first Bharatiya who envisioned India as a self
dependant country and India would stand the first raw in all aspects like
politically, economically and socially in the world too. From the life sketch of
Kautilya, we conclude that Kautilya is remembered for his revengeful life. But it
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
is not fact; Kautilya‟s aim was not just his personal revenge but he wanted to
establish the vast empire instead of many small kingdoms, because the big
empire should be safe and smoothly administration should come and all people
should be happy and satisfied with the king. He wrote the epic- „Arthāŝastra and
Nitishastra‟ to describe the exact purpose of his life. In Arthāŝastra he depicted
conduct of king, closed and sufficient economy, protection system, and laws,
economy based on native countries, production ways, agriculture, cattle rearing
and commerce. According to Kautilya, agriculture was the most important
constituent among all. After many years, it‟s a fact today that our Indian
economy is based on agriculture. He included different topics related on
administration. His books are relevant and useful even today.
He guided the next young generations by writing Arthāŝastra and
Nitishastra. According to Kautilya, “the secret task of a king is to survive for the
welfare of his people incessantly. The administration of the kingdom is his
religious duty. His greatest gift would be to treat as equals.” And “the happiness
of the commoners is happiness of the king. Their welfare is his welfare. A king
should never think of his personal interests or welfare, but should try to find his
joy in joy of this subject.”
Kautilya envisioned that our country would reach the following
levels in economical, political and social level of development.
1.
Kautilya envisioned India would have been self sufficient economy.
2.
Belief of Kautilya in the principles of equal rights for all categories of
people.
3.
Efficient management of land.
4.
According to Kautilya the state should keep eye on agriculture at all time
for development of the state.
5.
Construction of cities and forts as a device for protection of people.
6.
Collection of minimum level of tax.
7.
Same laws for all categories of people.
8.
Government should organize about the security of citizens.
9.
Kautilya dreamt society where people are not running after money but
spiritual development. It is necessary for improving strength, first priority
is spiritual progress of divine and material pleasure is secondary.
Kautilya is also second name for courage and continuous march in
spite of difficulties. Kautilya‟s works were described before 2300 years although
his words are relevant and useful for today.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
3.6 Different Views about Kautilya
1.
Writer of „Nitisar‟ described that Acharya Kautilya destroyed king Nanda
who was like mountain on his shoulder and Chandragupta who was like
the Moon among all the man became the emperor his place.
2.
Our first Prime Minister Nehru said about Kautilya in „Discovery of
India‟, “Chanakya has been called the Indian Machiavelli and to some
extent the comparison is justified. But he was much bigger person in every
way, greater in intellect and reason. He was not mere follower of king, a
humble advisor of a powerful emperor.” He also added, “Chanakya sat
with the reins of empire in his hands and looked upon the emperor more
as loved pupil than as a master. Simple and austere in his life, uninterested
in the pomp and pageantry of high position.”
3.
Mukherji gave his opinion in his article „the foundation of Mauryan
Empire‟ about Kautilya, “the country had recovered from the attack of
Alexander‟s victories march through it- march which had dislocated its
indigenous political organization. The atmosphere was full of frustration
and depression. The battle of India‟s Independence against these heavy
odds called for a leader of exceptional ability and vision who would infuse
new life and enthusiasm into the drooping spirits of a defeated people, and
organize a fresh national resistance against domination.” Thus our
country produced Kautilya who had already been prepared for a great
mission. Victory against Greek shows the ability of Kautilya although lack
of enough resources.
4.
Subramaniam puts, “there is undertone in his thought and teaching. In the
Arthāŝastra, which has been misunderstood, he says that the crux of this
political science is control over senses.” Kautilya recommended
moderation in material pleasure and adherence to the path of
righteousness.
5.
In „Mudrarakshash‟ of Vishakhadutta, Chandragupta has been depicted as
a weak insignificant young man and Chanakya being the real ruler.
6.
Sir Thomas R. Tratmann has described that Chanakya was born with a
complete set of teeth, which gave a sign that he would become a king or
great person.
7.
Mattessich throws lights on Kautilya‟s contribution. He recognizes
elements of modern principles of accounting in Kautilya‟s Arthāŝastra and
shows that it contains more accounting theory than Pacioli‟s Summa.
Mattessich deserves much credit for interpretations of Kautilya‟s implicit
analysis. He makes insightful and bold observations, noting that many
studies in accounting history have focused too narrowly on the search for
the origin of double-entry book keeping. He places Kautilya‟s Arthāŝastra
on a par with Pacioli‟s Summa.
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Contemporary Relevance of Economic Thoughts of Kautilya
8.
Winterniz says that, “it is strange that the same Kautilya, who in many
places of Arthāŝastra proves himself an orthodox follower of Brahminism
and often recommends the performance of religious rites. Has no scruples
whatever in recommending strategies which can only be called an abuse of
religiosity of people.”
3.7 Conclusion
Kautilya was brave and systematic, never forgetting his goal in life,
simple and uninterested in pomp, intelligent and sharp, devote and selfless.
Kautilya plotted and destroyed government as a saint. Works of Kautilya have
been used today although it was constituted over two thousand years. Such a
self respected and tribute life Kautilya lived! His whole life was mysterious but
spotless. He fought against Adharma like Lord Krishna. He had chance of
become an Emperor but he never thought to become an Emperor. He was loyal
to Chandragupta till his death. He would change all the circumstances in his
favor. Indeed Kautilya had a brilliant personality.
In Delhi, Chanakyapuri is situated; it means “the city of Chanakya”.
Chanakyapuri is one of the posh areas of Delhi. It reminds us Chanakya.
Kautilya was the first patriot in India who succeeds in his aim and
whose vision is relevant today. Kautilya reminds us that he is not just history
but he created history. His life, teaching and works will continue to guide us
and inspire to follow him.
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