Guest guest Posted May 15, 2002 Report Share Posted May 15, 2002 Chanakya also known, as Kautilya for his Kutila Neeti or the cunning art of diplomacy, was an enigma as not much authentic information is available about him. Chanakya was a master strategist, astute statesman and a shrewd political administrator. He was well versed in the Vedas and was a man of action. A man of foresight, he was always prepared for the worst. Fearlessness, compassion towards the poor and evil to deceit when needed, were some of his legendary traits. He was supposed to be extremely secretive. He was an uncrowned kingmaker who held the reigns of the Magadha Empire and looked upon the emperor more as a beloved pupil than as a master. A GREAT CHANAKYA RESOURCE http://www.top-biography.com/9046-Chanakya/ Leading a simple and austere life, uninterested in pomp and pageantry of high position, having redeemed his pledge and on accomplishing his purpose, retired Brahmin-like, to a life of contemplation and contentment. His style of administration was based on the four principles of persuasion, enticement, sowing dissension and punishment. He never refrained from achieving his purpose by unscrupulous means. Yet at the same time he was wise enough to acknowledge the fact that means unsuited to the end would defeat the very purpose. According to him war must always serve the larger interest of policy and not become an end in itself. The ultimate objective of every statesman ought to be the betterment of the State as a result of war and not merely the defeat and destruction of the enemy. His two major works are the Arthashastra and the Nitishastra. The Arthashastra lays the rules of governance and gives a detailed account of the state of affairs and polity at that time. The Nitishastra speaks more of morals, principles and observance of austerity in all walks of life. In other words, the real goal of Niti- indeed the goal of life is to realize ones eternal position in tune with Krishna Consciousness. His works are such that they have withstood the vicissitudes of time and shall have a place of their own for generations to come Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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