CONTENTS

Preface

Brief Biography of Acharya Chanakya

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
 PREFACE
Vishnugupt Chanakya was unlike other children, an extraordinary child.
His father Chanakya was a teacher. He also wanted to become a teacher
like his father. He studied politics and economics from Takshashila
University. He had already studied the 'Vedas' (Hindu sacred scriptures),
'Puranas' (Hindu mythology), etc. in his youth itself. His Chanakya Neeti
is an extract from the 'Vedic scriptures'.
All through his learning, his teachers were impressed by his sharp intellect
and reasoning power; he was appropriately called 'Kautilya' (master of
astuteness). After completing his education, he started teaching in
Takshashila University itself. Having studied politics, he kept a close
watch over national and international political happenings from the
beginning. During this period, he closely tracked the invaders of Northern
India like Seleucus and Sikander (Alexander). Even in his home and
neighbouring States, the state of affairs were not normal. The subjects
were unjustly and heavily taxed by the rulers. They were intolerably
burdened. All these circumstances disturbed Chanakya. He also wanted
India to be united. He, therefore, took a vow to serve the nation. He left the
teaching job at Takshashila University and came to Patliputra.
In Patliputra, when he met King Ghananand, he bluntly told him of his
shortcomings and the hardships being faced by the masses. King
Ghananand, who was used to appeasement, could not tolerate such
bluntness. Even though Chanakya was exceptionally intelligent, he was
ugly looking; he also did not like his looks and he expelled him from his
palace. In turn, Chanakya pledged to wipe out the Nand race, which he
successfully achieved with the help of Chandragupt.
Chanakya had a tough life; it was filled with all kinds of difficulties and
irrelevance. He had to fight it out at every step to move ahead. Some
people may think that his lifes view kindled the spirit of vengeance or
retaliation. But his retaliation was not for personal reasons but on account
of his concern for the masses. He had seen their sufferings and pains, even
felt it. He had appealed to King Ghananand on their behalf. Since King
Ghananand was not a well-wisher of his subjects, Chanakya pledged to
destroy him.
Chanakya worked for Chadragupt and then for his son, Bindusaar as their
minister and special advisor. But it was tragic that he was deceitfully killed
by Subandhu, a minister of Bindusaar.
He left behind Chanakya Neeti, a treasure trove for the world. This
treasure is being dedicated to you, the reader. It is hoped that you will
benefit from it.
-Mahesh Sharma
 BRIEF BIOGRAPHY OF ACHARYA
CHANAKYA
Chanakya is known in India as a great politician and economist. His
father Chanak 'Muni' (Hermit) was a great teacher. It is believed that
Chanakya was born in Takshashila or in Southern India, in the year 350
B.C. He died around 283 B.C.
Chanakya is also known as Vishnugupt, Vatsyayan, Mallnaag, Pakshil
Swami, Angal, Dramil and Kautilya. Child is the father of man. This
saying applies to Chanakya hundred per cent. Consider the following
events:
• Chanakya was born with a complete set of teeth, a sign that he would
become king or emperor. Since he was born in a Brahmin family, this
wouldn't have been possible, so his teeth were broken. However, it was
prophesied that he would be a king-maker and rule through him.
• From childhood, Chanakya possessed leadership traits. He was much
more intelligent and understanding, for his age.
• Chanakya was very blunt. For this reason, he was expelled by King
Ghananand of Patliputra from his court. Then, Chanakya had pledged to
wipe out the Nand race.
• To achieve his intent, he chose the young Chandragupt, whom he felt had
all the qualities to become a king.
• Chandragupt had several enemies. King Ghananand was one of them,
who had tried to kill him by poisoning him, several times. To enhance
Chandragupt's immunity against poison, Chanakya had purposely started
mixing small doses of poison, in his food.
• Chandragupt was unaware of this. So, one day he shared his food with
his wife, who, at that time, was nine months' pregnant. She could not
tolerate it and she expired. However, the child was saved by Chanakya, by
splitting her womb.
• This child grew up to become Emperor Bindusaar. He had a minister
called Subandhu. Subandhu could not tolerate Chanakya. So, he repeatedly
badgered King Bindusaar that Chanakya is the killer of his mother.
• Bindusaar believed it without verifying the facts and offended Chanakya.
However, when he came to know the truth, he felt ashamed and apologised
to Chanakya. He also ordered Subandhu to apologise to Chanakya.
• Subandhu was a very devious person. In the guise of seeking his apology,
he killed Chanakya by deceit. A political conspiracy brought about the end
of a great personality.

Education
Chanakya's father was a teacher. So he fully understood the importance of
education. He provided the best education to his son. When most children
would learn to speak, Chanakya had already started learning the Vedas. At
a very young age, Chanakya mastered the Vedas and developed interest for
politics. Soon he started understanding the finer points of politics. He
learnt how to plant operatives in the enemy camp and the art of spying.
Apart from this, he studied economics and the Hindu scriptures in depth.
Later, he wrote the eternally applicable, great manuscripts like Chanakya
Neeti, Neetishastra and Arthashastra.
Takshashila (now in Pakistan) was one of the top universities in India,
where Chanakya gained practical and applied knowledge in different
subjects. The students were taught science, ayurveda treatment,
philosophy, grammar, mathematics, economics, astrology, history,
astronomy, agricultural science and medicine science. The teachers there
were exceptional scholars in their subjects. His popularity during his
student days can be gauged from the fact that he was also called 'Kautilya'
and 'Vishnugupt' by the people.
After finishing his education in Takshashila, Chanakya started teaching
there. He was the students' model. They were prepared to do anything on
his command. Two of his students- Bhadrabhatt and Purushdutt were very
close to him. It has been said that they played a vital role in helping him to
attain his mission and even that they spied for him.
During this period, Chanakya learned from his sources that a great
emperor of Greece, Seleucus, was about to attack the weak rulers of India.
The unity of India was in danger. Taking advantage of the anarchical
situation, Patliputra's cruel ruler Ghananand started exploiting his subjects.
On the pretext of defending against the threat of foreign invasion, he
imposed several new taxes on the people. While on the one hand, there
was threat of attack from the foreign rulers, on the weak States; on the
other hand, even their neighbouring States were preparing to invade such
weak States. Chanakya was keeping a close watch on both the dangers. All
these likely upheavals were giving him sleepless nights. He decided to
move from Takshashila to Patliputra.

In Patliputra
Patliputra's (now Patna) history has been much checkered. Like Delhi, it
was built and destroyed, several times. China's famous traveler, Fa-Xian
had visited Patliputra in 399 B.C. and had said that it was a prosperous
city, rich in natural resources. During the same period, another Chinese
traveler, Huen-Tsang had described it as a destructed city.
Shishudhavanshi had established this city on the southern bank of the
Ganges river. Over the time, it has been renamed several times-Pushpur,
Pushpnagar, Kusumpur, Patliputra and now it is called Patna.
When Chanakya reached here, it was known as a place which respected its
scholars and intelligentsia. Scholars from all over the country were invited
respectfully for giving new ideas and suggesting ways for the
improvement of the State. So, Chanakya decided to initiate his mission to
unite the country from here.

Chanakya's Pledge
King Ghananand of Patliputra was an irresponsible, selfish and cruel
person. His only aim was to anyhow amass wealth. His greed for wealth
was insatiable inspite of the fact that he had hoarded huge wealth. His
subjects hated him but no one dared to raise his voice. His subjects were
intolerably burdened with several types of taxes. Even leather, wood and
stones were taxed.
When Chanakya reached Patliputra, King Ghananand's stance had softened
a bit. He set up a committee to help the poor. The committee consisted of
scholars and influential persons of the society.
Since Chanakya was a great scholar of Takshashila, he was also included
in the committee. Later, Chanakya was made the head of this committee
which was named as 'Sungha'. The head of the committee was required to
meet the king regularly. After becoming the head, when Chanakya met
King Ghananand for the first time, he was humiliated by him for his ugly
looks. He also could not tolerate Chanakya's bitter but true words. Over
the time Ghananand's hatred for Chanakya grew. Their enmity kept
growing. Chanakya did not believe in appeasement and used to work
professionally. He used to put across his views briefly but frankly. The
king thoroughly disliked Chanakya's attitude. So, one day he removed him
from his post and expelled him from his palace. This insult infuriated
Chanakya and he pledged that he would not knot his hair called 'choti' till
he deposed Ghananand from his throne.

Meeting with Chandragupt

After being humiliated, Chanakya rushed out of the palace onto the streets
of Patliputra like a wild bull. He was pricked by a thorn, he stumbled but
balanced himself. The scholar Chanakya had his own peculiar ways to deal
with situations. He looked at the thorny plant. He was furious at that
moment and he did want his anger to disorient him. So, he calmly sat
down in the blazing sun and started to uproot the plant. After a while, after
successfully uprooting the plant, he threw it aside and continued on his
way. When he was uprooting the thorny plant, his absorption was being
watched by a youth. He was Chandragupt, the future ruler of the Maurya
Empire. His face had a dazzling glow. He was impressed by Chanakya's
determination and he wanted to talk to the scholar.
He walked up to him and spoke to him respectfully. Chanakya asked him
about his family background, "Who are you? You seem disturbed?"
The young Chandragupt bowing respectfully said, "Sir, your opinion is
correct. I am in great difficulty. But I do not wish to bother you with my
troubles".
Chanakya said sympathetically, "You may share your troubles with me
without any hesitation. If it is in my power, I will help you".
"I am the grandson of King Sarwarthsidhi. He had two queens-Sunanda
Devi and Mura Devi. Sunanda had nine sons, who were called Navnands.
Mura had one son, my father. The Navnands tried to kill my father
repeatedly. We were more than one hundred brothers. The Navnands were
determined to kill us out of jealousy. I have somehow survived; but my life
is ruined. I want to take revenge from Nand, who is now the ruler."
Enemy's enemy is a friend. The hurt Chanakya got a friend, who was also
against Nand. Chandragupt's story shocked Chanakya. He became
emotional and pledged that he will not rest till he destroys Nand and
reposes Chandragupt to his rightful place, on the throne of Patliputra.
Chanakya said, "I shall get you the throne of Patliputra, Chadragupt".
From that day, Chandragupt and Chanakya became occupied in ending the
misrule of the cruel and despotic Nand.
Not much information has been documented on Chandragupt, his birth
place, his family background and other events of his life. There are
different versions in different manuscripts about his parents. In fact, it may
be true that he was related to the Maurya dynasty. Possibly, that is why, he
was called 'Chandragupt Maurya'. It is also said that his mother was the
daughter of a village head. His father was the king of a wild forest called
Pipatvan and was killed during a war. Thereafter, he came to Patliputra
with his mother.
Chandragupt had leadership qualities by birth. Even children used to
consider him as their leader. He used to hold his court as the children's
king and delivered justice. His traits of courage and understanding were
apparent from his childhood. When Chanakya was passing through the
streets of Patliputra, he had seen Chandragupt seated on a throne like high
rock, in a royal style. A group of children was seeking justice from him.
He was very much impressed by Chandragupt's imposing looks and
intelligent dialogue.
Chandragupt studied for the next seven to eight years. His teachers were
selected by Chanakya. Thereafter, he became expert in the art of fighting
and administration.

Sikander's Attack
During this period, Chandragupt's and Chanakya's friendship bond became
stronger. They formed a large army to counter the enemies. They also
witnessed several historic events. As Chandragupt's training had been
completed, Chanakya gave him a free hand to test his fighting abilities. A
simple village boy had now become a powerful army commander.
Chandragupt and his army got strength from Chanakya's brain and great
personality.
For tens of years, Sikander and other invaders had attacked the Indian
continent. Chanakya had studied Sikander's war strategies in depth. He
was also conscious of the Indian ruler's weaknesses.
It is said that Chandragupt and Sikander also fought each other.
Chandragupt's arrogance and hard attitude angered Sikander. He captured
Chandragupt.
Sikander's power had started waning due to the depletion of his
commanders. First, a brave commander named Nikosar was killed. Then
another commander named Philip, who was considered invincible, was
killed. His death shook up Sikander. After Sikander's death in Babylonia,
all his commanders were either killed or driven away. In 321 B.C., all his
officers divided his empire amongst themselves. It also ended their rule
over the area east of Sindhu River.

Nand's Defeat
Before attacking Nand, Chanakya prepared a strong war strategy. He first
tried this strategy by attacking the centre of the state. But they repeatedly
faced defeat. Chandragupt and Chanakya then changed their war strategy
and attacked the borders of the Magadha Empire. They were again
disappointed.
Chandragupt and Chanakya then revamped their war strategy, taking
lesson from their past mistakes. They befriended King Parvartak (or Porus
the second). Consequently, Parvartak, his brother, Verochak and son,
Mallayaketu joined them with their armies. King Nand also had the
support of a large army. His able minister, Amatya Rakshas was loyal to
him and was no less than a boon for him. Chanakya prepared a plan and
planted his spies in Nands camp. In a short period, he learnt their
shortcomings. Nand and Amatya Rakshas were also planning to counter
Chanakya's attack.
The details of the war between Nand and Chandragupt are not available.
But most certainly it must have been fierce and frightful battle. Nand, his
sons and other relations were all killed. Amatya Rakshas became helpless.
Thus, Chanakya destroyed the Nand race.

Chanakya's Principal Concern

Chanakya's life was full of vengeances; it inspires people to be revengeful.
But personal vengeance was not Chanakya's intention. He wanted that the
State was protected, it was ruled systematically and its subjects lived
happily-peacefully. To ensure the prosperity of the people, he did two
things. First, he appointed Amatya Rakshas as Chandragupt's minister;
second, a book was written, which detailed the code of conduct for the
king, on how he should protect himself and his people, from enemy attack;
on how to ensure the maintenance of law and order.
Chanakya's dream was that India should lead the world politically,
economically and socially. His book Arthashashtra depicts India of his
dreams. In his Neetisashtra and Chanakya Neeti, his sharp thoughts are a
motivation. Some of his ideas portray his social point of view:
• In the common man's affluence and happiness is the affluence and
happiness of the king. In their welfare is the kings welfare. The king
should not think about his self-interest and welfare but seek happiness, in
his subjects happiness.
• The king's mission should be to constantly make efforts for the welfare of
his subjects. It is his duty to maintain orderly administration. His greatest
reward is to treat everyone uniformly.
• Self-dependent economy is the best economy; it should not be entirely
dependent on exports.
• Everyone in the society should be equal with equal opportunities.
• According to Chanakya, it is necessary to have an effective land
management policy, for the development of the resources. The
administration should also keep a close watch on the landlords so that they
do not grab excessive land and misuse it.
• The State should keep a constant watch on the agricultural development.
The State administration should constantly work towards upgrading all the
steps involved from sowing of seeds to harvesting of the produce.
• The law of the land should be uniform for everyone.
• The security of its residents should be a priority for the government, as it
is the sole protector, apathy towards it can jeopardise the security.
Chanakya wanted to establish a society which laid greater stress on
spiritual satisfaction rather than on physical pleasures. According to him,
for the development of inner strength and character, spiritual development
was necessary. For the country and its society, the benefits from physical
pleasures were second to the benefits from spiritual development.
The guidelines framed 2,300 years back by Chanakya are relevant even
today. Even if his political principles are followed partly, then any State
can become great, become a leader and set example for others.
 Chapter 1

1.1 As per the Indian culture, before starting any auspicious work, prayers
are offered to invoke God, for seeking his blessings. Chanakya also
offered prayer to the creator of the three worlds-earth, heaven and hell;
omniscient, omnipresent before starting his great manuscript. Invoking
God he said, "Oh God! For the benefit of mankind, I am about to start
work on these political guidelines collected from different manuscripts.
So, Oh God! Please grant me strength and your blessings."

1.2 Through the study of this manuscript, after thought and reflection, even
an ordinary person will gain knowledge to distinguish between capability-
incompetence and rightwrong. Through this manuscript, I wish to create
consciousness in human beings towards good deeds versus sins, morality
versus immorality and duty versus irresponsibility. By observing this
moral behaviour, human beings should enlighten their lives. Then, the
purpose of this manuscript will be fulfilled.

1.3 For the benefit of the mankind, I shall describe those secret mysteries
of politics, the knowledge of which will make man omniscient. If he
follows the thoughts on moral behaviour in this manuscript, then most
certainly, he shall attain success.

1.4 By preaching foolish pupils, looking after a wicked woman or keeping

company of worried persons, even scholars will suffer. Therefore, foolish
persons should never be encouraged to undertake any good deed. One
must stay away from a characterless woman, otherwise his image will be
tarnished. Similarly, an unhappy person can never give happiness, so stay
away from him.

1.5 A person who keeps company of a sharp-tongued woman, a sinful

friend, also retains a traitorous and selfish servant, is playing with his life.
Such a person can be consumed by death any time.

1.6 Any person, who saves for hard times or crisis, is an intelligent person.
All efforts must be made to protect such savings. A woman is also like
your wealth, so she must also be protected. But before this, he must ensure
his own security, for only if he is secure he will be capable to secure his
wealth and woman.

1.7 People must save for crisis. But he should never think that he will be
able to avert the crisis by his wealth. Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, is
mobile; it is never permanent at any place. While accumulation of wealth
is an indication of intelligence but it does not mean that crisis can be
averted.
1.8 Any place, where man does not have respect-honour, no sources of
income/employment, suitable well wishing friends/ relations, facilities for
learning-education, such a place is most unsuitable. It should be left
without any delay.

1.9 Any place, which lacks the five basic conveniences, i.e. Brahmins to
perform religious ceremonies, a just king, prosperous traders, flowing
rivers and proper medical facilities, such a place is totally unsuitable for an
intelligent person. It should be left immediately.

1.10 In a place where the people do not have faith in this world or the next
world, who do not believe in the existence of God, who do not believe in
the welfare of others or in donating, an intelligent person should never
consider settling there.

1.11 Servants are tested by fulfilment of their responsibilities, friends are

tested in times of crisis, relations are tested in times of sorrow or incurable
sickness and a woman is tested when you have no money.

1.12 According to Chanakya, a man's true well-wisher is the one who

extends supports in sickness, famine, being bothered by an enemy, in a
difficult situation or in a crisis and after death, partakes in your cremation.
In other words, a true friend is the one who shares both, your happiness
and sorrow.

1.13 People, who stray from their planned and feasible tasks and jump to
unplanned and unachievable tasks, never succeed. They should, therefore,
attempt only those tasks, which they are confident of achieving.

1.14 Even an ugly woman of upper caste is more suited for a scholar and
an intelligent person. They should, therefore, marry an upper caste woman
of equal status. Contrarily, marrying a beautiful woman of lower caste
results in destruction of intellect and wisdom. Such relations are temporary
and scholars should avoid them.

1.15 Sharp clawed beasts, long horned animals, rapidly flowing rivers,
armed persons, women and relations of royalty are not trustworthy. In
other words, they can deceive any time. People should not trust them.

1.16 According to Chanakya, if it is possible to extract nectar from poison,

then it should be consumed without any hesitation. Similarly, you must
accept gold extracted from impure metals, learning from a common man
and a cultured woman from low caste without delay.
1.17 About women, Chanakya says that, as compared to men, their diet is
twice as much, modesty is four times, courage is six times and desire for
sex is eight times.
 Chapter 2

2.1 According to Chanakya, natural shortcomings are personal for

everyone. Everyone is born with some natural shortcomings. He has
included lying, cunning, foolishness, greed, impurity and cruelty in women
as natural shortcomings. But he also qualifies that it is not necessary that
every woman has the abovementioned shortcomings.

2.2 Chanakya says that being able to afford and eat delicacies; a woman
having beauty and sexual prowess; someone having huge wealth as well as
the spirit of charity, are rare virtues only obtained as a result of devotional
prayer or the good deeds of the previous birth.

2.3 Any person, whose son is obedient, wife is loyal, wellmannered and is
fully satisfied with his hard-earned income, enjoys the bliss of heaven in
his lifetime. In other words, he is extremely satisfied and happy.

2.4 According to Chanakya, a true son is the one, who always obeys his
parents. Only a person, who brings up his child properly, looks after his
sorrow and happiness, is fit to be a father, in real terms. Only a trustworthy
person can be a true friend and a woman, who delivers happiness to her
husband, can, in fact, be called a wife.

2.5 Like most fruits which look good from outside are not sweet, similarly,
people who talk sweet can be dangerous and untrustworthy. People, who
flatter on your face and criticise behind your back, are not fit to be friends.
They are like poison in milk. One should always be cautious of them and
get rid of them at the earliest.

2.6 Although, according to Chanakya, one should not trust a mean friend,
he has suggested being wary of good and well meaning friend also. In this
context, he says that in case the well meaning friend turns enemy, then
because he is aware of your personal secrets, he can cause damage to you.

2.7 While planning out or implementing any desired work, if you disclose
it, its successful conclusion becomes doubtful. So, take care not to disclose
it to anyone till its successful conclusion.

2.8 Ignorance is not only painful but man is also subjected to mockery on
account of it, adolescence can also cause extreme pain. But, according to
Chanakya, being dependent on someone is most painful. Such a person can
be compared to an animal. He has to act on someone elses orders. So, man
should live life with strength.
2.9 It is not necessary that every mountain has a precious stone's mine,
every elephants forehead is adorned with the mother of pearl, every place
is inhabited by gentlemen and every forest contains sandalwood trees. In
other words, this world is inhabited by people of different characteristics.
We must, therefore, develop contacts only with gentlemen and superior
persons. This will ensure fulfilment of the desired work.

2.10 Knowledgeable persons are able to eliminate ignorance through their

knowledge, so they must build the character of their children. They must
develop their talents through proper education and devotion. This will
make their inbuilt talents worthy of worship and respect. Through this
shloka, Chanakya, appreciating the talented person, says that like you
automatically bow your head in respect when you see a religious place,
similarly, talented people by becoming symbols of knowledge and belief,
find a place in the hearts of people.

2.11 Foolish and ignorant people are subjected to mocking. Amongst the
learned people, their condition is like that of a crow amongst swans. He is
neither able to express his ideas nor is he able to accept ideas of wisdom of
others. For this reason, Chanakya says that those parents, who do not
arrange for proper education of their children, are their worst enemies.

2.12 According to Chanakya, by pampering and accepting all the right or

wrong demands of their children, they develop several bad habits. These
bad habits hinder their progress and development in the future. It is,
therefore, essential to discipline them also, in addition to loving them. A
potter also needs to pat, caress and even beat the rotating mound on his
wheel, to shape it into a beautiful pottery. Parents must also bring up and
shape their children like the potter shapes his pottery.

2.13 Life's every moment, hour and day is important. So, man must use it
purposefully. For this, it is necessary that everyday he does self-study of a
ved mantra, half a shloka, shlokansh or a word. If for any reason he is
unable to do so, then he must donate. If it is not possible to donate, then he
should perform an act of kindness or do a good deed during the day.
People, who do not follow this, are wasting every moment of their life.

2.14 There are some sorrows in a man's life which are impossible to forget.
Losing your wife, an insult by a near and dear one, burden of debt, serving
a wicked master and living a life of poverty with fools-these hardships
cause illness and push a man towards death.

2.15 Chanakya says that as the trees on the banks of a rapidly flowing river
are damaged soon, similarly a woman staying with another man or a king
without an able minister is ruined soon.

2.16 According to Chanakya, as a Brahmin with the power of his

knowledge, a king with the might of his army, a businessman with his
wealth and a scheduled caste with his servility express their existence,
similarly, everyman's existence is expressed by some form of power. He is
completely useless without any power.
2.17 Chanakya says that a guest is important only if his stay is short. If
without hesitation or shamelessly he extends his stay, then it is graceless,
as a prostitute leaves a poor man, the subjects leave a defeated king and
birds leave a dead tree, similarly, a guest must quickly leave after having
and praising the food, offered to him.

2.18 Chanakya says that as a Brahmin moves on after receiving offerings,

a student goes his way after completing his education and animals abandon
a burnt forest, similarly, a man should quickly leave the abode taken up for
attaining his objective, after achieving his objective. This will indicate his
wisdom.

2.19 Even intelligent and wise men are ruined after some time, if they
remain in the company of immoral, sinful, wicked or cruel-natured
persons. Such persons are like a coal mine where everything turns black.
You must avoid friendship with such persons. In Chanakya's opinion, only
the intelligent and wise person will suffer in such a relationship.

2.20 Relations of affection and attraction are appropriate only with person
of your status. The same also applies to official relations. For business
having good public dealings and for home having a woman with superior
qualities are appropriate. So, a man should have relations in a society with
equals. Also only a government job offers stability, so it should be
preferred over other jobs. In business, your success depends on public
dealings and persuasiveness. Similarly, for a home, a talented and
educated woman is adorable. Therefore, a man should always observe the
above-cited things.
 Chapter 3

3.1 There is no one in this world in whose family or lineage, there are no
shortcomings or defects. A deep research will expose some shortcoming or
the other. Similarly, there is no one in this world who is free from some
illness or is totally happy and prosperous. So, everyone is gripped with
sorrow, hardship, pain and illness. Nobody can escape from it. Happiness
or sorrow and ups or downs come and go in everyone's life. So, a man
should not feel helpless but face it with courage.

3.2 A man's behaviour, his thought process is the introduction to his

family. From his speech, we can know about his motherland, from his
behavior, we can learn about his attitude towards affection and respect and
seeing his body, we can know about his food. In other words, his
personality reflects his complete attitude. By observing a man's
personality, an intelligent person can judge his good and bad qualities.

3.3 Expressing his opinion on an intelligent person, Chanakya says that he

should marry his daughter in a respectable and suitable family. He should
also provide the best possible education to his son and involve his friends
in religious activities. It is necessary that the intelligent person ensures that
his enemies are always trapped in difficulties. Then, they will never be
able to create any hurdles or crisis for him. Undoubtedly Chanakya has
shown signs of his political acumen in this shloka.

3.4 Comparing a snake and a wicked person, Chanakya says that a snake
bite is an unfortunate event. However, a wicked person will betray you at
every step and unnecessarily hurts you. Therefore, if given a choice
between the two, choose the snake without any hesitation.

3.5 As intelligent and well-bred gentlemen do not abandon anyone in

adverse and difficult circumstances, kings and scholars are always eager to
shelter them. Such cultured and wise persons have the capability to face
adverse circumstances with courage.

3.6 Praising intelligent persons, Chanakya says that inspite of merger of

several rivers into it, the sea remains calm but when there is a storm, then
it breaks all boundaries and submerges large areas of the earth. But patient,
mature and wise gentlemen maintain their cool even in adverse
circumstances. That is, in any circumstance, they remain patient and try to
find ways to resolve it with determination.

3.7 A foolish person is like an animal with two legs. He can neither
differentiate between right and wrong nor can he be taught anything. So,
leave the company of such a person at the earliest. Like a thorn in the feet,
even if not visible, hurts immensely, similarly, the foolish talk of a fool
constantly pricks gentlemen.
3.8 Through this shloka, Chanakya has highlighted the importance of
education. He says that as the fragrant and beautiful flower of the Dhak
tree butea frondosa is never offered to gods/ goddesses, nor does it attract
attention, similarly an illiterate but attractive person born in upper caste
family cannot get respect. Looks, beauty, wealth, property, power, status
and youth become graceful only when they are supported by education and
wisdom.

3.9 On the importance of attributes, Chanakya says that like the black
colour of the koel bird (cuckoo) becomes insignificant on account of its
melodious voice; in other words, its melodious voice depicts its character.
Similarly, loyalty towards her husband depicts a woman's image and
beauty. An educated and intelligent ugly woman is much more beautiful
than a gorgeous but a characterless woman. The attributes give her respect
and status. The greatness of the hermit lies in his ability to forgive. Not
losing their balance and patience, under any circumstances is the proof of
their true devotion. These attributes enable assessment of the depth of their
devotion.

3.10 According to Chanakya, if it is possible to protect the family by the

relinquishment or sacrifice of one person, then it should be accepted.
Similarly, if you can protect your village or society by the relinquishment
or sacrifice of one family, then it is entirely appropriate. To save your
state, a village or society can be sacrificed. But Chanakya also says that
nothing is more important than you. So, if you need to sacrifice the whole
world for your progress and protection, then do so without any hesitation.
If you are yourself not there, then you have no use for your village, society
or state.
3.11 Persons, who are vigorous or hard-working, do not face poverty;
persons dedicated in praying are sinless; silence does not lead to
arguments, rather creates a peaceful atmosphere. Similarly, a person, who
is careful, alert and aware, will be fearless and no one can harm him.

3.12 Chanakya says that the excess of anything or act is harmful.

According to him, Sita was kidnapped by Ravan because she was
extraordinarily beautiful. Having excessive arrogance and ego caused the
great scholar Ravan's death. On account of his excessive generosity, the
demon king Bali lost everything and was sent to hell. It can, therefore, be
said without any doubt that excesses lead to the end of man. So, avoid it.

3.13 No work is difficult or impossible for people who are powerful,

capable and courageous. They complete whatever they resolve to do. For
businessmen, no place is distant. They do not delay visiting any place. For
scholars, no place is foreign. They are able to develop followers and
friends on the strength of their education, intelligence and wisdom.
Similarly, sweet talkers can convert even enemies to friends. So, they do
not have any enemies.

3.14 Praising virtuous persons, Chanakya says that like a single tree with
fragrant flowers makes the whole forest aromatic, similarly, a single
virtuous son born in the family reforms it.
3.15 About a person devoid of any virtues, Chanakya says that as a single
tree on fire can burn an entire forest, similarly, a virtueless son born in a
status family can disgrace it by his acts. So, can a minor shortcoming in a
scholar become a curse for him. Therefore, people should implant good
ideas and traits in their children.

3.16 As a single moon can dispel darkness-a job which cannot be done,
even by hundreds of stars, similarly, a talented scholar, with character and
soft speech, brings pride to the whole family. Nobody likes a dark night;
similarly, a son devoid of any virtues is disliked by the family. Therefore,
Chanakya says that it is appropriate to have a single virtuous son in the
family rather than have several virtueless sons.

3.17 In the context of a virtuous son, Chanakya says that a notorious and
virtueless son pushes the family towards grief and dishonour, which leads
to its ruin. On the contrary, a virtuous son, by his knowledge, wisdom and
learning, earns place of pride, for the family in the society. Even though
Ravan had hundreds of sons and grandsons, but being virtueless, they were
all killed in the war. So, one virtuous son is better than several virtueless
sons. He opens the door for the development and progress of the family.

3.18 On the responsibilities of a father towards his child, Chanakya says

that for the first five years, he must be brought up with love and affection.
For the next ten years, he must be brought up with strict discipline,
because this is the period for the development of his personality. This
period is like the foundation on which will rest the rest of his life. From the
age of sixteen, he should be treated like a friend; guide him like a friend;
settle his problems like a friend.
3.19 The person, who escapes frightful disturbances, riots, attack by
enemy, dreadful famines and company of wicked people is capable of
defending his life. Through this shloka, Chanakya clarifies that for safe
guarding his life, a person should change according to his circumstances.

3.20 Religion, wealth, sex and salvation have been termed as four
important sects of life. Anyone, who does partake in any one of these
sects, is wasting his life. Without any of these attributes, his life is like
death, he has taken birth to die and to be reborn again. So, a man should
not philander his precious life in sexual pleasures and luxury. Instead, he
must adopt good qualities and earn goodwill.

3.21 According to Chanakya, in a state where the fools are not honoured,
which is extraordinarily prosperous, in a house where there are no
arguments between husband and wife, the presence of Goddess Lakshmi is
certain. In such a place, there is no dearth of anything. All the members of
the family live happily and harmoniously.
 Chapter 4

4.1 Stressing on the need to act in life, Chanakya says that your age,
activities, wealth, education and death is decided when you are still in your
mothers womb. These five things are controlled by God; nobody can alter
them. Yet man should keep making efforts.

4.2 Chanakya says that when a person gets detached from society or
becomes indifferent to attachment/wealth and becomes a saint, then his
friends/relations, who see him off away from home and come back,
usually get involved in attachment/wealth. But people, who adopt saintly
practices and entire family follows virtuous conduct, reform their family.

4.3 About gentlemanly and saintly persons, Chanakya says that like a fish
raises her offsprings by sight, turtle by care and birds by touch, similarly,
the company of gentlemen and qualified persons raises the level of
common people. Their company opens the doors to God. Therefore,
people should seek the company of saintly persons.
4.4 Describing religious activities and other good deeds, Chanakya says
that religious activities, charity/pilgrimage, prayer/ worship and
fasting/attending discourses, etc. open the way to heaven. So for cleansing
your soul, while you are hale and hearty, you must perform all these
activities as per the proper practices, otherwise there will be nothing left
after death.

4.5 Sage Vashishtha had a cow named Kamdhenu, who could fulfil all his
desires immediately. Chanakya has compared education to Kamdhenu. He
says that like a person possessing Kamdhenu will never die of hunger,
similarly, after attaining education, a man becomes capable to face any
crisis. In a foreign place, education is like your mother, who will protect
you at every step. Education is a hidden treasure, which no one can steal;
on the contrary, the more you use it, the more it develops.

4.6 Like a single moon can dispel darkness which even lacs of stars cannot
do, a single bright and capable son is far better than hundred unmerited
sons.

4.7 Chanakya says that a foolish and illiterate person only gives lifelong
hardship and pain to his parents. It is, therefore, fit that such a son expires
at birth rather than grow old. Even though it will grieve the parents for a
short term but at least they will not have to suffer lifelong. History is also
witness to several such foolish offsprings, who destroyed the mighty
empires.
4.8 Residing in a bad or disreputed place, serving people of unknown
background, eating bad food, a short-tempered wife, a foolish son and a
widowed daughter-Chanakya says that these six reasons give heart rending
pain like fire. So, gentlemen should take all possible measures to set them
right.

4.9 There is no point in keeping a barren cow, which does not give milk.
Similarly, it is only right to relinquish an illiterate and disobedient son;
otherwise, the family will have to bear untold hardships.

4.10 In this world, everyone is distressed by some sorrow. Such a person

can feel happiness and peace only in the company of a virtuous son, loyal
wife and gentlemen. So, Chanakya has advised people to keep company of
scholars and gentlemen. According to him, humanities' happiness lies
there.

4.11 According to Chanakya, a king's order is like a command and needs

no repetition. Scholars and Pundits stick to what they say. A daughter's
hand is given away in marriage once. So, any person, who wants do a good
deed, must do it in one go.

4.12 Chanakya has defined the number of people that must be involved in
doing different types of tasks. Meditation, prayerofferings and learning of
lesson should be done alone. Involvement of more persons will create
obstacles. Contrarily, studies are better done by two persons together.
More than two persons will indulge in wasteful talk. For singing, three
persons are adequate, whereas for travel, four persons are appropriate. For
farming, five persons and for war, the largest number of persons are
required.

4.13 In the context of an ideal wife, Chanakya says that a woman, who is
pure, clever, wise; who is prudently devoted; who only loves her husband;
who always speaks the truth and shuns lies, only that woman is
respect/worthy and fit for the home/family.

4.14 As a home is desolate without children, similarly, a man feels lonely

without friends and relations. But stupid, poor and poverty-stricken men
always have selfish motives, so they do not have any feelings of love,
affection or sympathy. Therefore, they live in isolation as everyone stays
away from them.

4.15 According to Chanakya, without practice, even scholars cannot recite

manuscripts properly and will be mocked. For them, this insult will be
more painful than death. So, for a scholar, who does not practise regularly,
the manuscript is like poison. Similarly, a person, whose digestion is weak
or who cannot digest food properly, even delicacies are like poison for
him. Because in meetings and seminars, the poor person is always insulted,
so for him such places are like poison. For an aged person, a young wife is
like poison. In such circumstances, the young wife's behaviour is very
painful and insulting for the aged man.
4.16 Through this shloka, Chanakya cautions mankind to never accept a
religion, which is bereft of compassion; not to consider a person as a Guru
who is not a scholar; not take an extremely short-tempered woman as a
wife. Similarly, never consider children, who lack affection; friends, who
do not value friendship, dear and trustworthy.

4.17 Regarding aging, Chanakya says that walking lost in thought for long
periods, keeping horses tied to their holders, denying women sexual
pleasures and drying clothes in sun for very long signal the arrival of old
age. So, avoid them.

4.18 According to Chanakya, people should take precautions regarding

certain important matters. How are we doing, who are our friends and foes,
how is our residence, how much is our income and expenditure, what is
our strength-they must focus on all these matters. People, who take care of
all these matters, are never unsuccessful.

4.19 Chanakya has considered the Mother who gives birth to you, the
Brahmin, who performs your religious thread ceremony, the Guru, who
teaches you, the person, who feeds you and one who dispels fear, having
the status of your Father. He says man should be indebted to them and
should always respect/honour them. He is reborn again on account of
them.
4.20 Chanakya says that man has five mothers- the King's wife, Guru's
wife, friend's wife, wife's mother and your own mother. He says man
should extend due respect/honour to them. Anyone, who shows evil intent
against them or disrespects them, goes to hell.

4.21 Brahmin, Kshatriya and Vaishya are born twice-once from the
mother's womb and, the second time, when they attain knowledge from the
Guru. They are, therefore, called dual castes. Their idol is Sun God. In
contrast, the Gods of saints reside in their hearts. The Gods of people with
limited intelligence exist in statues. But for very broad-minded people, the
Gods exist in every particle in the world.
 Chapter 5

5.1 Regarding Guru, Chanakya says that for Brahmin, Kshatriya and
Vaishya, fire is like their Guru. Since the Brahmin is superior amongst all
the castes, so he is the Guru for all. Similarly, for a woman, her husband is
her worship deity and Guru. But Chanakya has called the guest as most
respectful and worshipable. In this context, he says that a guest only
desires hospitality. He has no other vested interest, so he is most superior.

5.2 Chanakya says that to test the purity of gold, it is heated at high
temperature; it is tapped, hammered and cut. That gives it the glitter.
Similarly, an honest person is tested for purity by his acts of donation,
good deeds, virtuosity, sacrifice and behaviour. Any person, who
possesses all these qualities, glitters like gold.

5.3 How should an intelligent person act in a crisis-in this context,

expressing his opinion, Chanakya says that as long as he is free of
difficulties, worries and crises, he should fear them. But once he is
surrounded by them, then he should face them fearlessly, courageously and
patiently. Only then can he defeat and escape from them.
5.4 Citing an example of diversity of human nature, Chanakya says that
berries and thorns growing on the same tree and branch have different
characteristics. The consumption of berries gives a man sweetness and
satisfaction, whereas the pricking of thorns gives him pain and irritation.
Similarly, children born under the influence of the same planet or born at
the same time from the same womb, have different characteristics. So a
man should understand this fully, only then can he attain peace.

5.5 On the character of a person, Chanakya says that a person, who

demands his rights, is greedy. A person, who places importance on beauty
and make-up, is lustful. Foolish people by nature are not soft-spoken.
Contrarily, persons who are frank and truthful do not have even an iota of
cunning, deceit and craftiness.

5.6 Discussing human nature, Chanakya says that no one is pleased to see
anyone superior to him; rather he envies and hates him. Foolish people
hate scholars due to envy; so they ill-treat them. On account of envy only,
lazy and poor people develop enmity towards the affluent. Similarly,
prostitutes envy loyal women and widows envy married women. Even
though such envious behaviour should be overlooked by scholars from
fools, affluent from poor, loyal women from prostitutes and married
women from widows, they also mutually find faults to prove their
superiority under the influence of foolishness and envy.

5.7 According to Chanakya, laziness and irregular practice corrupts the

intelligence of scholars and ruins their knowledge. Women under the
influence of others are soon ruined. Lack or shortage of seeds results in
lower crop output. Similarly, in the absence of the commander, the army
can never win a war. Thus, in order to get superior results, the importance
of regular practice must be understood.

5.8 Chanakya says that only by constant practice, knowledge can be

retained. Similarly, only by his acts, behaviour and nature, a man can
attain honour, respect and glory for his family. For this, being born in an
upper caste, having higher status and being rich is not material. Good
people are recognised by their traits, whereas eyes show anger.

5.9 On the importance of wealth, meditation, soft speech and loyal woman,
Chanakya says that wealth safeguards religion, meditation safeguards
education, soft and gentle speech safeguards the king and loyal woman
safeguards the household.

5.10 The person, who criticises knowledge of scriptures, the superiority of

manuscripts and truthful persons, faces extreme hardships in this and other
world. Such persons are neither able to gain respect/honour in society or
reap benefits of their prayers after their death. The persons who keep their
company, also meet the same fate, in the same measure.

5.11 In this shloka about donation, modesty, knowledge and courtesy,

Chanakya says that donation is an effective means of alleviating poverty.
Modesty eliminates degradation and hardships. Knowledge ends a man's
stupidity and ignorance, whereas courtesy destroys a man's fear. So, for
living peacefully, a man should develop and imbibe all the four qualities.

5.12 Describing disorders like lust, infatuation and anger in a man's life,
Chanakya says that lust is a man's most powerful enemy. It is such an
untreatable disease under the influence of which a man loses his wisdom,
as well as his health deteriorates rapidly. Infatuation destroys a man like an
enemy. It was infatuation for a son which caused the destructive war of
Mahabharata. Similarly, anger is like a wild fire, whose flames repeatedly
singe man. It affects man's mind/brain every moment. Chanakya says that
knowledge is the best weapon for destroying these disorders. According to
him, only knowledge can subdue these disorders and lead to peaceful
existence.

5.13 Inspite of having so many relations, friends, wife, son, etc. in this
world, a man is basically alone. He is born alone and has to depart alone
from this world. He alone has to bear the consequences of all his good and
bad deeds. He has no partner in this. Happiness and sorrow are only his;
they will affect him only. He has to travel the life's journey towards
heaven alone.

5.14 For a Brahmin, who gives importance to acts, even the pleasures of
heaven are useless; whereas, for a Kshatriya, who takes pride and feels
honoured in taking risks, he is least bothered about his life. Any man, who
exercises control over all his senses, remains unmoved by the looks/beauty
of a young woman. He is never affected by disorders like lust, anger,
greed, liquor, infatuation, etc. Similarly, for a person, who is detached
from worldly matters and is without greed, even precious stones are like
straws.
5.15 Defining a true friend, Chanakya says that for a person going abroad,
education is his true friend and for the family, a loyal wife is a true friend.
For a sick person, his medicine is a true friend. Since after death only a
person's acts and religious beliefs count, so religion is his true well-wisher.
Therefore, a man should perform good deeds while living, so that he does
not face hardships after death.

5.16 Explaining the purpose and benefits of donation, Chanakya says that
like rain serves no purpose over a sea, a candle is useless in daylight, it is
useless to feed a person who is not hungry and give alms to a rich person.
Chanakya says that rain is required in fields and candle is required in
darkness; food must be fed to a hungry person and alms must be given to
the poor. One can only derive benefits from such donations and good
deeds.

5.17 Chanakya has considered rain water to be most pure and pious from
the viewpoint of health and usefulness. Since your inner strength can
control senses and body, so he has considered the inner strength to be the
most superior. Animates see the world created by God through their eyes,
so there is no greater vision than eye-sight. There is nothing more tasty and
relishing than grain. It satiates the mankind's hunger and gives him
strength. Mankind never tires of consuming it.

5.18 On diverse desires of different persons, Chanakya says that poor and
poverty-stricken persons desire wealth; animals desire speech; ordinary
persons are obsessed with the idea of going to heaven; God men and
hermits only seek relinquishment. Similarly, mankind is distressed with
having some desire or the other and continuously thinks about it, so much
so that they even consider what they possess to be inferior.

5.19 Explaining the power of truth, through this shloka, Chanakya says
that the foundation of a Brahmin's spirit/soul is truth. This world is
surviving on truth alone. The glow of truth is illuminated in the form of the
Sun in the sky. The power of truth moves the air, brings about the changes
of day-night and the weather. Explaining the value of truth in detail,
Chanakya says that the power of truth has given stability to this universe.
The destruction of truth leads to upheavals and the universe submerges
under water. Chanakya says that, therefore, mankind should believe in
truth and behave accordingly.

5.20 On religion, Chanakya says that even though this world is

destructible, religion can never be destroyed. Wealth, youth life can be
destroyed one by one. However, religion is indestructible, immortal and
eternal; nobody can destroy it. Even though in his lifetime, man amasses
invaluable things/wealth and is surrounded by relations, after death, he
loses everything except religion. So, he must follow the path of religion.
The allurements of the worldly destructible things distract him and try to
divert him from the path of religion, so he must sacrifice them. As the
darkness is dispelled by Sun's rays, similarly, practice of religion dispels
all the sorrows of man, in this as well as in the other world.

5.21 In this shloka, Chanakya has identified the cunning. He says that
amongst men, the barber is the most cunning. Likewise, in birds, the crow,
in animals, the jackal and in women, the female gardener is most cunning
and crafty. They are always attempting to harm others. So, gentlemen must
avoid the company and friendship of such persons.
 Chapter 6

6.1 In this shloka, Chanakya has clarified the importance of study and
listening of the Vedic manuscripts. He says that to understand the depth of
religion, the knowledge of the Vedic manuscripts is essential. Through
them, man can imbibe the essence of religion in life. Vedic knowledge can
even move the man's sin-filled mind towards righteousness. By its
influence, even an ordinary man can attain superiority. The power of
Vedic knowledge enables the saints to undertake the welfare of the world
and reach heaven after death.
Like the study of the Vedic manuscripts is extremely beneficial, likewise
listening to its recitation purifies the mind. So, if the study of the
manuscripts is not possible for men, then they should listen to its
recitation. This will enable them to understand the Vedic knowledge in
greater depth.

6.2 On critics, Chanakya says that even though in birds the crow, in
animals the dog and a sinner saint are the most evil and irreligious, the
critic is even a greater sinner and of a wretched nature. Even though the
critic gains nothing by criticising, he enjoys it. His sins keep adding up by
criticising and a day comes when his sins destroy him. So, Chanakya has
cautioned men against criticising.
6.3 On the pathetic condition of women, Chanakya has written an
appropriate shloka. He says that as by rubbing ash a brass utensil shines, as
dried mango powder purifies a copper utensil, as a swiftly flowing river
remains clean, similarly, after menstruation, a woman becomes pure and
pious and is able to conceive. But women who don't have menstruation or
are unable or incapable to conceive, they do not get due respect in the
society.

6.4 In this shloka, Chanakya says that a king, a Brahmin and an ascetic
who tour are respected. On the contrary, a woman who wanders around is
considered corrupt and immoral in the society. Explaining in detail,
Chanakya says that it is the duty of a king to know the difficulties being
faced by his people. How his officers behave with the people and what
actions they are taking for their welfare? So to get first-hand information,
he should travel incognito. If the Brahmin keeps travelling, he is never
short of followers. Also his status in the society rises day by day.
Travelling by saints and ascetic enables them to spread their knowledge
and wisdom amongst the masses. Thus, the backward and ignorant people
who listen to them develop righteousness. But for a woman, who travels
without any purpose draws herself closer to hell. Needy and resourceless
women can fall into bad company and loose their character and respect.
So, they should refrain from the travelling needlessly.

6.5 "What is destined cannot be changed by anybody": this saying has

often been heard in different sections of the society from time immemorial.
This saying illustrates the superiority of fate and its impact. Chanakya has
probably written this shloka after a deep study of this saying. On his
thoughts about fate, he says that ones wisdom is dictated by one's fate at
birth. His life, actions, situations-everything is decided by fate. He also
gets relations and friends as destined by his fate. Man gets only what he is
destined to get. But Chanakya also believes that man should not be entirely
dependent on fate. Man's duty is to make efforts, so he should always
strive to do so.

6.6 On time, Chanakya says that time or death is most powerful. It is so

powerful that it can destruct anything in this universe in no time. Even
when universal destruction causes it to disappear under water, the time is
ticking. Time cycle is perpetually in motion. Against it even the most
knowledgeable persons, scholars and good souls become helpless, the
brave and bold Kshatriya are defeated. All the four life stages of mankind
conform to time. It is impossible for everyone to win over time. It is,
therefore, imperative that mankind remains righteous and habitually
performs good deeds. Through good deeds only he can set right his life in
the next world.

6.7 A person born blind cannot see anything. But a person, who is blinded
by lust, also loses his ability to think inspite of having vision that person
acts in demeaning and censurable manner in large gatherings. Similarly, a
person addicted to liquor is also categorised as blind. Intoxicated by liquor,
people lose their mental balance and their thinking ability. On account of
his useless and meaningless talk, he is criticized and scoffed. Likewise,
Chanakya has called a selfish and sinning person blind. According to him,
such a person never thinks twice in causing hurt/loss to anyone, to fulfil
his selfish interests. For him, there is no difference in sin and good deed.
For him in front of his vested interest, everything else is inferior.

6.8 As Lord Shri Krishna preached Arjuna in Gita on ones deeds, likewise
through this shloka, Chanakya in the avatar of Krishna preaches the
mankind in the avatar of Arjuna. He says that everyone reaps according to
his deeds, good or bad. His deeds only bind him to wealth. He is born
repeatedly in this world in different forms according to his deeds. Even
though a man is free to act, he cannot reap as he desires. Man can only
control his actions; but only the Lord has the power to reward him for his
deeds. So, for his salvation, a man must keep trying himself.

6.9 In the context of sins, Chanakya says that only the king has to bear for
the sins committed by his subjects. The sins committed by the king are
borne by the family priest. The sins of the wife affect the husband and that
of the student affect the Guru. So Chanakya has stressed on the necessity
to contain the sins in the kingdom. According to him, it is the duty of the
king to eliminate all kinds of sins in his kingdom; he should not allow the
spread of arbitrariness and evil. This will ensure that the people in his
kingdom lead a fearless life and the king shall reap its rewards. Thus, he
has stressed on the necessity to restrict sins and to establish a religious
reign.

6.10 Chanakya has composed this shloka to explain as to who is the true
enemy of man. According to him, a father, who leaves debt on his
children, is their true enemy. An adulteress is the enemy of her children.
Similarly, an extraordinarily beautiful woman is the enemy of her
husband; a foolish and obstinate son ruins the father. Contrarily, an
industrious father, a religious mother, a loyal wife and an intelligent son
are all the true well-wishers of a man. In fact, their support leads the man
towards the righteous path.

6.11 In this shloka, Chanakya has told of ways to control diverse persons.
He says that a person, who is greedy by nature, can be controlled by
allurement only. An obstinate and arrogant person can be controlled by
politeness. If a foolish and brainless person's wishes are fulfilled, then he
can be easily controlled. To mould an intelligent person, he must be made
aware of the facts. Thus, after analysing the weakness and the needs of a
man, Chanakya has given the Guru Mantras to control them.

6.12 A state in which sins and sinners abound, instead of staying there, it is
better to stay in an isolated place. It is much better to be without a friend
rather than have a friend, who is untrustworthy, cunning and evil; because
such a friend will ruin you anytime. Similarly, it is much better to be
without a characterless pupil or an adulteress wife. Such people are like
coal that stain even gentlemen, who provide them support. A person, who
stays away from them, is able to enjoy the pleasures of life.

6.13 In this shloka, Chanakya has expressed his invaluable views on the
king, friend, pupil and wife. He says that in a kingdom, where the king is
evil, unreligious and sinner, the people can never live in peace. Therefore,
people should only reside in a kingdom whose king is righteous. It is
useless to expect support or affection from a friend, who is deceitful and
treacherous. Befriend only a person who is able and trustworthy. You can
never expect love and pleasure from a woman, who is disloyal and
cunning. Therefore, you must marry a woman who is well-mannered and
from a wellbred family. It will enhance the pleasures of married life.
Similarly, characterless and irreligious pupils will always bring defame. It
is much better not to have them.
6.14 In the scriptures, it is stated that man should gracefully accept
learning, from wherever he gets it. Chanakya agrees with it. Through this
shloka addressing man, Chanakya says that God has definitely given some
quality or the other to every living thing. So, any qualities of even foolish
persons or animals should be accepted without any hesitation or shame. He
says that man should accept one quality each from lion and stork, three
from donkey, four from cock, five from crow and six from dog.

6.15 According to Chanakya, the lion is gifted with an important quality,

which man should imbibe. He says that if a man takes responsibility for
any work, then he should fulfil it with sincerity and courage. However,
before taking up the responsibility, a man should introspect on his
strengths and weaknesses. Thereafter, he should make efforts to complete
it with full sincerity and wisdom. This will bring him fame and respect.
Contrarily, men who dither to complete the assumed work or misguide
others, nobody trusts them again.

6.16 The stork has the quality of concentration and patience. In this shloka,
Chanakya has suggested imbibing this quality. He says that like the stork
focuses patiently its sights on its prey and expels all other thoughts from
its mind, an intelligent and wise person should control all his senses, focus
and complete his work. This will ensure hundred per cent success.

6.17 Chanakya has stressed intelligent and wise persons on imbibing four
qualities from the cock. Getting up at a fixed time; being ever ready for a
fight; sharing fairly with friends/ relations and sexually satisfying its hen.
Like the cock rises early daily and attends to its chores, similarly, a man
should also rise early and attend to his chores. While on one hand, it will
keep him healthy, on the other, he will be able to complete his tasks on
time. It is in the nature of the cock to be ever ready for a fight. So, a man
should also be ready to fight his enemies with full courage. The cock
believes in sharing. Accordingly, a man should also give away everyone's
share at the right time. The denial or lack of sexual pleasures drives a
woman towards disloyalty. Therefore, like the cock, a man should keep his
wife sexually satisfied, so that she remains loyal.

6.18 Chanakya has stated that the crow is gifted with five qualities-
performing sex in private; being wicked and adamant; having nature to
store; never being lazy and never trusting anyone-which a man should
imbibe. Like the crow has sex in private, man should also have sex in
private. This ensures he retains his esteem and respect. To repel his
enemies man should learn the wickedness and obstinacy of the crow. He
can then destroy his enemies. The nature to store can pull man through
difficult times with determination and courage. The crow is never lazy, so,
a man should shun his laziness and concentrate on his tasks. This will
ensure his success. Never trusting anyone is the strongest quality of the
crow. If a man adopts this, then he protects himself fully and nobody can
harm him.

6.19 Having a large appetite, being satisfied with less in adversity, having
a sound sleep, remaining alert even while sleeping, facing the enemy with
loyalty and courage-the dog has these six qualities. Chanakya says that
these six qualities are superlative for a man. He says that if a man imbibes
these qualities, then he remains fit as well as he experiences mental peace
and contentment.

6.20 According to Chanakya, even the symbol of foolishness, the donkey,

has three qualities. Toiling tirelessly, not being bothered by hot or cold
weather, being patient and contented-the presence of these qualities makes
a man's life worthwhile. A man should tirelessly work like a donkey. This
will ensure his success. Not being bothered about hot or cold weather will
condition his body and he will always remain fit. Similarly, by being
patient and contented, he can care for his family even with less and be
happy.

6.21 In conclusion, Chanakya says that anyone who adopts all the twenty
qualities, his life will be filled with happiness and success. He will be able
to enslave happiness and continue to rise in life.
 Chapter 7

7.1 Chanakya believes that endurance is an essential quality in an

intelligent person. According to him, a person should not reveal to anyone
sorrow of loss of his wealth, having an evil wife or being insulted by
anyone else. For this, he must be enduring. Endurance will save him from
humiliation in front of others. Therefore, he must imbibe the endurance
quality and bear all the above adversities quietly.

7.2 In this shloka, Chanakya clarifies that those people, who hesitate in the
activities of buying-selling, teaching, eateries and money lending, will face
lot of problems and difficulties. It is, therefore, appropriate that people
involved in the above-cited activities should never hesitate.

7.3 There is no end to a man's desires and lusts. The fulfilment of one's
desire leads to creation of several other desires. Gradually, these desires
overpower him and draw him towards a sinful life. A man should imbibe
the two qualities of patience and contentment. These will ensure that he is
at peace with himself and is satisfied. This is the simplest and easiest path
to attaining happiness in life. In contrast, people, who are greedy and have
vested interests, never experience true happiness during their lifetime.
They are always under mental stress and remain disturbed. So, a man
should stay away from such traits.

7.4 A woman, food and wealth provide tremendous satisfaction to man.

Chanakya also accepts this fact. He says that one's wife, even if she is ugly
or beautiful, evil or amiable, foolish or intelligent-should not be deserted.
If he is satisfied with her, then he will be free from mental tension forever.
A man should never reject food just because it is not tasty. He should
gladly accept whatever food he gets, be it simple or fit for royals.
Similarly, he should feel satisfied with whatever he earns through labour.
In addition, Chanakya also advises man to stay ahead in donating, praying
and learning.

7.5 Chanakya says that it is important that you should not pass between
two people in discussion. He says that there is the fear of a calamity if you
pass through two Brahmins, Brahmin and his prayer fire, a couple,
employer and his employee and bull and plough. You should side step,
instead of passing through.

7.6 Chanakya says that fire, guru, Brahmin, cow, girl, aged and child must
be respected and honoured. Therefore, they must never be touched with
your feet. Anyone doing so is a fool and comes to grief.

7.7 Friendship with an evil person is very damaging and full of pitfulls
falls. So man should stay away from his company. Chanakya expressing
his view, says that it is in your interest if you stay five steps away from a
bullock cart, ten steps away from a horse and hundred steps away from an
elephant. But Chanakya has considered an evil person even more
dangerous than all of them. So, he has suggested that a gentleman should
not hesitate to even leave the country to stay away from an evil person,
otherwise, he cannot escape from his downfall for long.

7.8 On the tendency and ways to control an evil person, Chanakya says
that like an elephant is controlled by an iron hook, horse by a whip and
horned animals by a stick, to control an evil person, one needs to use a
sword. Explaining in detail, Chanakya says that an evil person has a very
low mentality. He is always eagerly scheming to harm others. It is
impossible to change such people by love, affection and knowledge. There
are instances when the evil person even crosses all limits. In such
circumstances, a gentleman should use the sword for his selfdefence.

7.9 A Brahmin loves his food, so ample delicious food gives him
fulfilment. A peacock is pleased to see the clouds; its thundering prompts
it to dance. This dancing satisfies it. A gentleman is never jealous of others
grandeur, opulence, progress and happiness, rather he is satisfied with their
meager means. On the other hand, an evil and cruel person is satisfied in
harming others. They feel elated seeing others in crisis.

7.10 In this shloka, Chanakya reveals an important strategic saying. It also

has a hidden meaning. He says that a strong person cannot be won over by
force. You should control him by conduct favourable to him. An evil
enemy should be defeated by adopting conduct unfavourable to him.
Whereas an equal enemy can be won over by a combination of humility
and force.
7.11 What is the true strength of man? By which inner strength can a man
make others bow before him? In this context, Chanakya's statement has lot
of depth. He says that a king's strength lies in his arms, with which he
destroys his enemy. A Brahmin's strength is inherent in his knowledge of
the scriptures, through which he can defeat even the greatest scholar. A
woman's strength lies in her beauty, youth and sweet talk. Even while
being delicate, through them she has the power to make any one bow
before her. So, a man should understand his strengths completely.

7.12 The current time is very difficult for simple and gentlemanly persons.
Any clever person with selfish interest easily cheats them. This shloka
appropriately deals with such a situation. Through this shloka, Chanakya
advises simple and gentlemanly persons that sometimes their simplicity
and righteousness can become a curse for them. Their simplicity is
exploited by evil and selfish persons. For this, they do not even hesitate to
harm them. Citing an example, he says in the forest only the trees, which
grow straight are cut and nobody bothers about trees which grow in a
haphazard manner. So, a man should not be so simple that people easily
exploit him.

7.13 In this shloka, comparing the selfish person with a swan, Chanakya
says that only when there is water in the pond, the swans stay and build
their nests on the bank. But when the pond dries, they break all the
attachments and fly away. The selfish person also behaves in the same
fashion. Till his vested interest is not fulfilled, he remains with his
provider and showers his affection. Once his vested interest is fulfilled, he
leaves his provider. So, a man should not be selfish like the swan. If he
stays with him in good times, then he should also support with
determination in adversity.
7.14 Excessive wealth not only corrupts a man's mind but also makes him
greedy and selfish. Clarifying this saying, Chanakya says that if in time the
still water in a pond is not changed, it rots and becomes useless. In order to
retain its usefulness, it should run continuously. Similarly, the amassed
wealth must be circulated by donation. This not only earns esteem/ respect
for a man in this world, it also opens doors for ensuring happiness in the
other world.

7.15 The importance, influence and usefulness of wealth has been

established for centuries. Even Chanakya accepts that wealth is more
important than intelligence and knowledge. Explaining it, he says that even
if someone is short on knowledge/ wisdom but has unlimited wealth, he
will be respected in the society. In contrast, a poor but knowledgeable,
intelligent and wise person is looked down upon. The power of wealth is
so great that even unfamiliar persons develop relationship, whereas
poverty even drives away relations. The paucity of wealth leaves you alone
in adversity. It is only wealth which gains man the highest respect in
society.

7.16 On identifying great persons, Chanakya says that they have the four
combined qualities of donating, sweet talk, praying and respecting
scholars. He is ever ready to donate; his speech is sweet at all times; his
psyche is fully devoted to God and he always respects scholars.

7.17 On identifying the evil persons, Chanakya says that they have
extreme anger, they always utter poisonous speech, they are ever ready to
cause harm to friends/relations, they keep the company of evil men and
they work for contemptible men. Such persons bear extreme hardships of
hell, even while living in this world. Poverty and being characterless are
their other ill qualities.

7.18 On the positive effects of being in the company of great men,

Chanakya says the forehead diamond of the elephant could be found in the
cave of the lion, but only bones and meat will be found in the abode of the
jackal. Similarly, one can learn a lot in the company of gentlemen.
Contrarily, the company of evil men will only lead to misdeeds and crime.

7.19 Chanakya has stressed on the importance of education. He has

compared an illiterate person to a dog's tail. He says that as a dog cannot
cover his vitals or get rid of flies/mosquitoes with his tail, similarly, a
foolish and illiterate person cannot properly take care or protect his family.
So, a man should gain knowledge instead of craving for food and wealth.

7.20 Having the spirit of looking after the welfare of others and kindness
only can purify a person. In the absence of this spirit, purifying your mind,
speech or senses has no meaning. Elaborating further, Chanakya says a
person taking care of the welfare of others is pure in the true sense. The
soul of such person does not get corrupted even in bad company.

7.21 Even though flowers have fragrance, seeds have oil, wood burns,
milk contains ghee and sugarcane is sweet, all these things are not visible.
Similarly, in the case of men, the soul is present in the body but cannot be
seen. However, it can be felt by wisdom. So, a man should enlighten it by
wisdom.
 Chapter 8

8.1 According to Chanakya, evil and cruel persons have the lust for
wealth. To obtain it, they do not hesitate even to adopt any despicable
means. Their sole objective is to get wealthy. Even though middle-income
people also consider wealth to be important, but for them, their
esteem/respect is also equally important. So, even though they have the
lust to become wealthy, they hesitate to adopt despicable means. Whereas
for righteous persons, their esteem/respect is most important. So, to retain
it, they even refuse the most valuable thing.

8.2 In this shloka, Chanakya describes the relaxations granted to sick and
hungry persons in the scriptures. He says that water, sugarcane, milk,
vegetables, beetle leaf, fruits and medicines have been classified as most
pure substances in the scriptures. So, they can perform religious rites, even
after consuming them. There will be no impediment.

8.3 Chanakya most definitely accepts the fact that good/bad qualities and
conduct of the parents' influence their children. He says even though a
lamp dispels darkness, its soot is black. Similarly, the type of food a man
consumes, his children will like that. Elaborating this, Chanakya says that
if a person is a cheat, characterless and evils pirited, then his children will
also possess these ill qualities. Against this, a gentleman's children will be
intelligent, simple, honest and tolerant. Therefore, a man should always
imbibe good qualities.

8.4 Even though Chanakya has stressed on the obligation to donate, he

says that it should not be given to everyone. In this context, he says that as
the clouds absorb water from the sea and release it as lifegiving rain over
the fields, the same water multiples manifold and merges back into the sea.
Similarly, if donation is given to a person who is tolerant, learned, honest
and a gentleman, then it is received back a hundred times. However, it
should never be given to a person who is lazy, evil, jealous of others,
immoral and a sinner, otherwise such a donation will be a waste.

8.5 Chanakya cautions that it is in the interest of a man to stay away from
the company of a degenerated and evil person. If possible, he should not
even come face-to-face with him. In the scriptures also, the Rishi-Munis
have compared such persons to a hundred devils. According to him, an evil
person is extremely dangerous, degenerated and unfaithful. Merely being
in their company can cause several crises and sorrows.

8.6 In the Hindu scriptures, bathing has been described as an important and
purifying act. In this context, Chanakya says that after oil massage, visit to
the crematorium, mating and shaving, a man's body becomes impure.
Bathing is the act which purifies him again, so after the above-cited acts, it
is essential to take bath. It is also healthy. However, one must not bathe
immediately after mating, as it is not healthy.
8.7 On drinking water, Chanakya says that the stomach is an important
organ. It is the stomach which controls your fitness. It is, therefore,
essential that a man should keep his digestion in order. In case of
indigestion, water acts as a medicine. So, drink a lot of water, but do so
before taking food or after digestion of the food. If water is taken
immediately after taking food, it acts like slow poison and deteriorates the
body.

8.8 If knowledge is not used, it is forgotten; the neglect of a person makes

him inactive; without the commander, the army dissipates and without the
husband, the wife is ruined.

8.9 Old age has been described as the man's most pathetic and difficult
stage of life. At this age, the wife's death, usurping of one's wealth by close
relations and being dependent for food- these three things are extremely
painful. He says that wife is a true companion in old age and her absence
makes a man completely helpless. If a man has wealth in old age, he does
not have to be dependent on others for food. So, to avert this pathetic state,
a man should save wealth.

8.10 According to Chanakya, getting the knowledge from the Vedas,

without performing yagna/havan is useless. Also if after the yagna, the
honorarium is not paid, all the benefits of the yagna are negated. Through
these statements, Chanakya wishes to clarify that a man cannot get success
in any task, if he does not have full faith in it. In other words, only that
task is successful, which is done with mental dedication and sacrifice. So,
a man should do all the auspicious and virtuous tasks with full dedication
and sacrifice.

8.11 It is the practice in the Hindu Dharma to pray before the idols of God
made of wood, stone or metal. Chanakya believes that a man can pray
before idols of God made of any material, but it is necessary to have true
dedication and reverence. In fact, only on account of this faith, God resides
in man's heart and he feels the presence of God in inanimate objects and
attains salvation.

8.12 Believing in the idols of God made from wood, stone and metal to be
the true form of God and praying before them results in God's blessings. In
other words, God does not exist in inanimate objects but in your faith. That
is why, it is said that you cannot get salvation without dedication and faith.

8.13 Chanakya has written this shloka using his entire life's experience. He
says that in this world, there is no greater devotion than peace, greater
happiness than contentment and sickness than greed. Likewise feeling for
others' sorrows and being ever ready to help are man's true duties. In other
words, a man should shun anger and bear all difficulties peacefully. Such
actions of a man are comparable to the severe devotions of ascetics. Man
should be satisfied with whatever means he possesses. Contentment alone
will give him complete happiness whereas sickness like greed will even
deprive him of actual happiness. Praying to God and visiting religious
places are not the only duties of a man, serving others and humanity are
his true duties.
8.14 Anger completely ruins a person. Anger is the image of the God of
death, who is ever ready to grasp the person in its hideous jaws. Under its
influence, the person loses his senses and it leads him to perform
despicable acts. It is said that in the journey to the other world, on the way
is a river named Vaitarni. It is very painful for the soul to cross it.
Chanakya has compared greed to the Vaitarni river and he says that, a man
should make all efforts to stay away from greed. He has compared
education to the 'Kamdhenu cow' which fulfills all wishes. He says that a
man, who learns, is certain to get all his wishes fulfilled. Similarly,
Chanakya has compared contentment to Lord Indra's abode, Nandan
forest, which is pleasing and charming. So, he has stressed on living in
contentment.

8.15 According to Chanakya, beauty is enhanced by good qualities,

whereas the grace of the dynasty lies in morality. The test of your
education is through your ability to create wealth and the value of money
rises by using it. Elaborating this, Chanakya says that even if you are very
beautiful and youthful but without any qualities, then you will face insult
and disregard. A person's behaviour decides the superiority of his dynasty.
If a man believes in righteousness, then his dynasty will get appropriate
respect/ regard in the society. Any learning through which you cannot earn
money is useless. If wealth is only amassed and not used, then it loses its
importance.

8.16 Improper behaviour ruins beauty. If you lose your morality, then your
dynasty will be defamed. Similarly, without full involvement, you cannot
attain success in any task and misuse of money leads to its dissipation.

8.17 Water stored in the depths of the earth, a loyal woman, a welfare-
inclined king and a content Brahmin-Chanakya has called these four
utmost pure. According to him, the water stored in the earth contains
minerals, so it is healthy. Nobody is as radiant as a loyal woman. Even
Gods acknowledge her. A welfare-inclined king is always concerned about
the welfare and good of his people. He is considered as a great person.
Honorarium paid to a content Brahmin is received back manifold. So, a
man must respect everyone.

8.18 A discontented Brahmin, an unambitious contented king, a shameful

prostitute and a shameless status woman-Chanakya has called these four to
be extremely damaging for a man. He says that a discontented Brahmin
can never earn respect in the society. An unambitious king can never be
concerned about the welfare and progress of his people. As a result, pretty
soon his enemies ruin his kingdom. Any shameful prostitute can never
satisfy her clients. As a result, they shun her and in the end, she dies of
hunger. In contrast, a shameless status woman falls in bad company and
ruins herself and her family.

8.19 In this shloka, Chanakya enlightens on the importance of learning. He

emphatically says that in the absence of learning and good qualities, even a
person born in an upper caste is mocked. Against this, a person born in
lower caste with learning and good qualities, attains status in the society.
In other words, it is not enough to be born in an upper caste to attain
greatness. It is necessary for him to be tolerant, patient, learned and
welfare minded.

8.20 Explaining the importance of education, Chanakya says that only

scholars are praised everywhere; they get fame/respect from every place.
They get all the happiness because of education. In fact, all over the world,
education is worshipped; nothing is more valuable. Therefore, a person
under them is also respected in the society. So, a man must get educated.
This will open the doors of progress for him.

8.21 Chanakya has compared men who eat meat, drink liquor, are foolish
or are illiterate, to animals. He says such men behave like animals. They
do not contribute anything to society and state, but bad qualities. You
cannot expect welfare or gentlemanly behaviour from them. They are only
excessive weight on the earth. Their life is a waste.

8.22 In Hindu scriptures, performing yagya/havan, on auspicious

occasions has been considered very important. Lord Brahma has compared
it to the kalpavriksha which fulfills all the wishes of a man. This saying
has been accepted by Chanakya also. But he argues that if while
performing the yagna there is deficiency of any kind in its
ceremony/arrangement, then its effects can turn negative/causing
difficulties. So, while performing the yagna grains should be donated, the
hymns should be recited according to procedure and the priests should be
given proper honorarium. If this does not happen then the yagna can cause
ruin. So, yagna should only be performed when the capability to perform it
as per the correct procedures exists.
 Chapter 9

9.1 In this shloka, Chanakya preaches willing persons, the ways to attain
salvation. He says that if a man wants release from the cycle of life-death
and attain salvation, then he should completely abandon perversions like
sex, anger, greed, allurement and arrogance. These perversions are like
poison for man. Under their influence, a man remains tied to
affection/wealth for life. Instead of these perversions, a man should imbibe
qualities like forgiveness, simplicity, patience, politeness, honesty,
generosity, welfare, mercy, truth, love and purity. This enables him to be
free of all sinful acts and attain salvation.

9.2 Persons who expose others secrets, Chanakya has called them
degenerated, meddlesome and evil. He says that such persons initially feel
elated by insulting one or the other, later they are ruined like a snake
trapped in an ant hill. People should stay away from them.

9.3 Like gold does not have fragrance, sugarcane is not a fruit and
sandalwood does not flower, similarly, scholars are not wealthy nor do the
kings have long life. The creator of the universe did what he thought best.
Had he taken care of the above-cited deficiencies, then it would have been
much better for the world. But a change in any manner in the universe's
laws is not possible.

9.4 In this shloka, Chanakya clarifies that there is no medicine as pure and
life bestower as nectar. It cures all ailments. So, in medicines, nectar is
most superior. Eyes are the most important senses amongst all the senses.
Through these a man is able to see the God's beautiful creation. In their
absence, life is filled with darkness. Likewise, the brain controls the man's
body, without it, the body is useless.

9.5 According to Chanakya, those who discovered the solar and lunar
eclipse are also called scholars. For this, they didn't send any emissary in
space nor discussed it with anyone. They studied the facts of the space,
researched them and gained all the knowledge, staying on the earth itself.
This clearly shows that scholars are able to understand the inner thoughts
of others without saying anything. Nothing remains a secret in front of
their intelligence and knowledge.

9.6 A student, employee, traveller, hungry person, scared person,

storekeeper and doorman-can only complete their tasks while remaining
awake.
So, Chanakya says that if you find them sleeping, awaken them. On
awakening, the student can complete his studies and the employee will be
able to complete his task on time. Likewise on awakening the traveller, he
will be able to protect his wealth, as well as will be able to reach his
destination quickly. After awakening, feed the hungry and reassure the
scared. The job of the storekeeper is to protect the store and the guard to
police the house while remaining awake. If they sleep, then thieves and
dacoits will rule the roost. So, they also must be awakened.

9.7 In the above shloka, Chanakya has talked about awakening certain
people. In this shloka, he prohibits awakening some living beings. He says
not to awaken a snake, king, lion, wild boar, child, fool, honebee and
other's dog, otherwise he will face great hardships. These beings are better
off sleeping.

9.8 Chanakya has called a Brahmin who only uses his knowledge to earn
wealth, useless for the society. His being or not being in the society is of
no consequence. He will never be known for his intelligence and
knowledge in the world.

9.9 Any person, whose anger has no impact and his happiness does not
benefit anyone, such a person's behaviour cannot influence anyone. You
should not expect any sympathy or favour from such a person. This person
only exists for himself and he is not concerned with anyone else.

9.10 In this shloka, Chanakya displays his diplomatic prowess. Approving

showmanship of strength and influence, he says that like people are scared
of a hissing snake, even though he may not be poisonous, similarly, a
person without any influence must create influence in the society by
showmanship. People may not be aware that the snake is not poisonous;
similarly, people are scared of showmanship. In such a situation, the
person is never mocked.
9.11 Discussing the daily activities of a fool and an intelligent person,
Chanakya says that a fool's day starts with gambling. In the afternoon, they
mate and their nights are spent in robbing or other sinful activities. Against
this a gentleman's, and intelligent person's day starts with good deeds and
the whole day is spent in other's welfare. So, a man should use his time
purposefully like a gentleman.

9.12 On performing religious ceremonies, Chanakya says that a man can

reap the benefits of pleasing the God, if he performs all the religious
ceremonies himself. Making the flower garland and placing on the Gods
idol himself, applying the self-made sandalwood paste and reciting the
self-written hymns in the praise of God, etc. will enable him to obtain
God's grace. In contrast, if he gets all these ceremonies done through a
servant, then the benefits will accrue to the servant. So, a man should
perform all the religious ceremonies himself.

9.13 The more you subject to pressure the sugarcane, oilseeds, shudra
(person of the lowest caste), woman, gold, earth, sandalwood, curd and
betel leaf, the more qualities they develop. The more you crush sugarcane
and oilseeds you will get more juice and oil. The tougher stand you take to
educate a shudra and a woman, the more quickly they will learn. The more
intensely gold is heated, the more it shines and becomes purer. The better
the earth is ploughed, the better is the yield. Similarly, the more you rub
sandalwood, curd and betel leaf, the more you enhance their qualities.

9.14 Chanakya says that you must be satisfied with whatever you have. A
poor man should be patient. This will enable him to endure the difficulties
of his poverty, with his limited resources. Even if he keeps his cheap
clothes neat and clean, he will be able to improve his appearance. Even if
he eats his frugal food hot, it will be tasty. Similarly, if a wise and
intelligent person is ugly looking, he will not face impediments. So, a man
should look for ways to be happy and satisfied, even in the above-cited
circumstances.
 Chapter 10

10.1 According to Chanakya, no wealth is greater than education.

Accepting this important fact, he says that a person without wealth is not
poor, but a person without wisdom and education, is truly poor. Even a
fool can earn wealth, but only a few fortunate get educated. A wealthy fool
cannot earn respect/repute for himself. However, a poor scholar can attain
a respectable place in the society. Therefore, getting educated has more
value than earning wealth, so a man should always make efforts for
gaining it.

10.2 Through this shloka, Chanakya has cautioned man to act only after
due consideration; like drinking water after filtering it through a cloth
sieve. That is, he should talk in a sweet tone and behave politely with
everyone. That will ensure that he never stumbles and faces defeat in life.
Clarifying, Chanakya says that a man's behaviour is enough to make
people bow before him. Even enemies can be won over.

10.3 According to Chanakya, there are lot of obstacles and difficulties in

getting education. So, the students, who desire pleasure, should shun the
idea of getting education. The paths to enjoying physical pleasure and
getting education are separate. To attain both simultaneously is impossible.
Whereas, on one hand, physical pleasure is pleasing and delightful, on the
other hand, getting education is like performing a severe religious
austerity. To obtain it, one needs to do self-mortification like gold is
heated. So, one must choose only one, with due consideration.

10.4 Chanakya says that a poet's imagination is limitless, it is impossible

to fathom it by an average person. It is beyond anyone to enter the palace
of his imagination. Likewise, men are unaware of the true power of
women. It is difficult to imagine what a woman can do if she becomes
obstinate. A drunkard loses control over his speech. So, it is difficult to
predict how he will behave. Even the crow does not know what he should
eat or what he should not eat. In other words, it is not possible to know any
living beings' limit. In times of crisis, a man can cross any limits.

10.5 Extolling the supremacy of fate, Chanakya says that it is impossible

for anyone to overrule it. It is the miracle of fate which can make a king to
become a pauper and a pauper to become a king. Whatever God has in
store for a man, he has to bear the consequences accordingly. The fate
cannot be altered in any manner. Consequently, certain events can occur in
a man's life, which no one can predict. So, as far as possible a man should
perform good deeds. His forbidding cannot be dispelled, but its impact can
be minimised.

10.6 It really hurts a greedy person to give money, so he considers anyone

who asks for alms, charity or donation as his enemy. Likewise, a
knowledgeable preacher cuts short a fool and tries to instill knowledge in a
him. So, a fool considers him as his enemy. For a disloyal wife, her
husband is like an enemy, because he tries to restrict her independence.
The thieves find it difficult to burgle in a moonlit night, so they consider it
their enemy. In other words, through this shloka, Chanakya clarifies that
evil persons consider everyone who follows the path of righteousness, as
their enemy; yet gentlemen continue on their righteous paths.

10.7 As the bamboos inspite of being surrounded by sandalwood trees,

growing on Malyachal Mountain, are not as fragrant as them, do not
develop the characteristics of sandalwood, similarly, a fool in the company
of scholars cannot become a scholar. Explaining this, Chanakya says that a
person who does not have the ability to think/understand, who is not eager
to learn, cannot be taught inspite of best efforts. Any preaching to such
persons is a waste. For that, a man should be curious.

10.8 Chanakya says that mirror was made for people having vision. They
can see themselves in it. But for the blind, it serves no purpose. You
cannot blame the mirror for it. Similarly, the Vedas/ scriptures were
created and for intelligent and wise people. They are beneficial only for
people, who have thinking and understanding ability. Fools cannot benefit
from them.

10.9 Explaining the nature of an evil person, Chanakya says that as by

repeated washing, your excreting parts cannot be cleansed, similarly, even
by numerous preaching of wisdom, the nature of the evil person cannot be
changed. All efforts to reform them fail.

10.10 In this shloka, Chanakya has cited the consequences of envy. He

says that the person, who is envious of saints, soon meets his death. Being
envious of your enemy results in death and loss of wealth. Being envious
of the king results in death, loss of wealth and respect. Likewise, being
envious of the Brahmin results in death-loss of wealth-respect, along with
ruin of his entire family. So, a man should always get the blessings from
gentlemen. His blessings will enhance his wealth and bring prosperity for
his family. He will also live long and enjoy all the pleasures of life.

10.11 Through this shloka, Chanakya has called that a wise person, who
on becoming poor, instead of staying with his relations, prefers to stay in
the forest amidst wild animals like lion, elephant, tiger, etc. in a tree house,
eats fruits and roots, drinks water, sleeps on a grass mattress and covers
himself with leaves. Explaining this, Chanakya says that on becoming
poor, a person may be mocked on several occasions. Such a situation is
extremely stressful and can cause mental tension. Nobody supports him
when he becomes poor. So, it is wise to leave and stay in the forest.

10.12 Giving a form to the imaginary eternal tree, Chanakya says that the
Brahmin is eternal tree on the earth. Prayers are its roots and Vedas its
branches. Religious ceremonies are its beautiful leaves growing on the
branches. He says that roots of the tree are most important, as the tree
survives on the roots. If the roots weaken or die, its does not take long for
the tree to dry. So, the root must be duly protected.

10.13 In this shloka, Chanakya says that anyone whose mother is Goddess
Lakshmi, father is Lord Vishnu and the worshippers are classified as his
relations, such a person is most superior. For him, all the three worlds are
like his country-it is as if he owns all the three worlds. But to attain such a
state, a man should possess the qualities of gentlemanliness, benevolence,
tolerance and charity.
10.14 Chanakya has explained the concept of life and death in a very
simplistic manner. He says that a crow, pigeon, sparrow and parrot-even
though being of different species and colour, sleep on the same tree in the
night. But at the crack of dawn, they all fly away to their own destinations.
Similarly, the human souls also settle for some time in families, in the
form of trees. Then at the appointed hour, they fly away from that tree. So,
one should not grieve or feel sorrow on their departure. This is the law of
the nature and the entire universe is guided by it. Even the creator of this
world, Lord Brahma cannot change it.

10.15 Chanakya says that in the hour of need, only the intelligent man can
effectively use his strength. Even though it might be less, his strength is
significant. Contrarily, a fool's strength may be immense but it is useless,
as in the absence of intelligence, he will never be able to use it effectively.
So, it is more important to have intelligence rather than more or less
strength. It is only using his intelligence a rabbit killed a lion, by making
him jump into the well.

10.16 Through this shloka praying before Lord Vishnu, Chanakya says
that it is only Lord Vishnu who provides food to the
whole world. So, he is called the provider. Had he not been the provider,
there would be no milk in the breasts of a mother, at the time of birth of
the child. Oh Shri Vishnu! Oh Lord! For your greatness, I, Chanakya, bow
before you and fold my hands a thousand times. But here Chanakya also
clarifies that even though man should have full faith in God, he should not
shy away from his efforts. God will fulfil his wishes, only if he also makes
the effort.
10.17 In this shloka, Chanakya has expressed his desire to learn and
understand other languages in addition to Sanskrit. He says that even after
drinking nectar, the Gods impatiently desire to kiss the Apsaras, similarly
even after entirely learning the Sanskrit language, I have the yearning to
learn the other superior languages of the world, because after learning
these languages, I will attain the due respect/honour in the world. This
shloka of Chanakya aptly applies in the present times.

10.18 According to Chanakya, the addition of ghee in the food provides

maximum strength and nourishment. He says that in comparison to wheat,
its flour provides ten times more strength. Milk contains ten times more
strength than flour. Meat provides eight times more strength than milk. But
ghee is the best. Its regular intake provides immense strength. So, it must
be consumed in the right measure in food.

10.19 On food products, Chanakya says that excessive consumption of

vegetables, etc. invites diseases, whereas milk helps in the development of
the body. Ghee enhances strength and sperm; meat deposits fat. So, man
should consume more milk and ghee as compared to vegetables and meat.
Against it, consumption of vegetables and meat will deform the body.
 Chapter 11

11.1 Chanakya has included charitable nature, sweet talk, patience and the
knowledge of right-wrong amongst the superior traits. But he says that
man is born with these traits. When a child is born, these traits are present
in him instinctively. It is impossible for a person to develop them by
practice.

11.2 Man's relations are truly his supporters. If he leaves them and rushes
towards others, he is ruined very soon, like a king is ruined on account of
his unholy behaviour. He clarifies that like the king, who turns away from
his religion, is definitely ruined, any person, who gives up his religion and
is attracted towards another religion, inspite of being affluent, is ruined.
So, a man should never be indifferent to his religion.

11.3 Through this shloka, Chanakya has proved the superiority of wisdom,
cleverness, radiance and strength over size. He says that a huge elephant is
controlled by a small iron hook; a lamp's small flame dispels darkness; a
hammer can break huge mountains. In other words, a man who is wise,
clever, radiant and strong, can overcome even the most difficult problems.
The superiority is not in size but inherent in these four qualities.

11.4 It is told in the scriptures that after the completion of the Dark Age,
the period of total destruction will commence. In the final destruction, the
earth and the universe will be submerged under water. Explaining the signs
before the final destruction, he says that ten thousand years before the end
of the Dark Age, Lord Vishnu will depart from the earth. Five thousand
years earlier, river Ganges will disappear from the earth. Two thousand
five hundred years earlier, the local Lord will depart from the earth. Like
this in the Dark Age when the earth is left with sinners, unholy and cruel
persons, then God will depart from the earth.

11.5 According to Chanakya, the students, who wish to attain knowledge

while being attached to allurement/wealth and pleasures of life, never
succeed in their mission. In reality, they are the stumbling blocks to
attaining knowledge. By eating a meat man becomes vindictive. In such a
state, he loses the virtues of sympathy, welfare, patience and contentment.
It is foolish to expect any sympathy from him. Do not expect truthful
conduct from a person, who is greedy for money. To earn money, he will
resort to telling any kind of lies. Similarly, a person, who is sexminded, is
unmindful of the meaning and importance of purity. Such a person only
promotes infidelity.

11.6 An evil and cruel person's behaviour changes mysteriously according

to circumstances. So, it is impossible for anyone to understand it.
Explaining this, Chanakya says that like the Neem tree (Indian lilac), even
if it is irrigated with ghee, milk and sugar, it does not change its nature, i.e.
of bitterness; likewise, even after several preaching and affectionate
treatment, it is impossible to turn an evil person into a gentleman. A man's
behaviour is dependent on his traits at birth, which have been ordained by
Lord Brahma. He behaves accordingly, so a gentleman should not waste
his time to reform him.

11.7 Chanakya considers the purity of mind over the purity of body. In this
context, he says that if a man's thoughts are filled with sins and impurities,
then even after taking several dips in religious places, his soul cannot be
purified. Like even after putting a liquor container through fire, it does not
lose the smell, similarly, even after taking bath in holy water, a man's
impurities are not washed away. So, according to Chanakya, a man should
purify his mind rather than his body. His welfare lies in it.

11.8 On a cruel person criticising and insulting a talented and decent

person, Chanakya says that if a fool considers a diamond to be an ordinary
stone, the diamond cannot be blamed, for it will still remain a diamond. In
other words, a cruel person may go to any extent in criticising and
humiliating, the talented person's qualities remain as it is, their importance
is not diminished. In this circumstance, Chanakya has compared the cruel
person to a 'Bhilni' (a mountain tribe female), who considers an elephant's
head diamond useless and throws it; and is happy to don a 'Ratti' (seed of
Abrus precatorius) necklace. In other words, a person, who criticises a
scholar and talented person, is called a fool.

11.9 Chanakya says that one must remain silent while eating food.
Clarifying its importance, Chanakya says that a person, who observes
silence for a year while eating food, enjoys the pleasures of heaven for
millions of years. Even Gods also worship him.
11.10 Chanakya has compared getting education equivalent to doing a 'tap'
(rigorous religious austerity). Like the hermit purifies himself in the fire of
the religious austerity and earns holy virtues, similarly, a student, while
treading on a tortuous path, attains invaluable wealth like education. But
weaknesses like sexual desire, anger, greed, allurement, arrogance, taste,
makeup, curiosity, excessive sleep and excessive service are its obstacles.
So, he should stay away from these and only then he will succeed in
getting education.

11.11 According to Chanakya, only those Brahmins can be classified as

Sages, who survive on tuber roots-tree tuber-fruits, etc. consider it superior
to live in the forest and pray everyday with offerings for the departed
souls. Clarifying this, Chanakya says that a person, who is satisfied with
the available means and devotes himself in the worship of God regularly,
is a gentleman. Contrary to this, persons, who are greedy, discontented and
atheist, are evil.

11.12 In this shloka, Chanakya has described regulations of

Brahmin/Dharma. Describing his activities, he says a Brahmin should
consume food only once in a day and be satisfied with it. Most of his day
should be spent in Yagna-Havan and study of the Vedas. Simultaneously,
he should have the quality to donate generously and accept honorarium.
Apart from this, he should be able to control delinquencies and mate at the
proper time, only for the purpose of producing an offspring. Any person,
who observes these as prescribed can only be truly called a Brahmin.
11.13 Vedas specify four classes of people. They have been classified
based on their profession rather than on their descent or caste. Chanakya
says that 'Vaishya' (trader) is a person, who is involved in conventional
activities like husbandry, farming and business, etc. If a person born in a
Brahmin family undertakes these activities, then he should also be
considered a 'Vaishya'.

11.14 Chanakya says that a person, who is involved in the businesses of

lac, oil, ultramarine blue, dyeing colours, honey, ghee, liquor and meat,
etc. is called a 'Shudhra' (person of the lowest caste). According to him, if
a person born in a Brahmin, Kshatriya, or Vaishya family does these jobs,
then he should also be considered a Shudhra.

11.15 Any person, who creates obstacles in others good deeds, who
misguides to cheat by deceit/fraud and whose atrocities afflict people, such
a cruel person, inspite of being a Brahmin, is called a beast. Categorically,
a person indulging in degenerated and filthy activities is classified as a
beast, even though he might be related to a Brahmin family.

11.16 Chanakya has branded a person a barbarian, who feels elated in

damaging wells, gardens and temples. According to him, a scholar
unconcerned with welfare of the society and his social responsibilities is
called a degenerate.

11.17 A person, who steals the wealth of saints/gurus, who is a consumed

adulterator and who has no hesitation in begging for his food, such a
person may be a Brahmin but is classified as a hangman. Even though born
in an upper caste, they are called degenerates and are looked down in the
society.

11.18 Preaching through this shloka, Chanakya says that a king and a
gentleman should use their wealth for welfare and donation, instead of
amassing it. Practising this, great donor Karna, demon king the Bali and
King Vikramaditya earned worldwide fame. Even today their fame is
intact. Against this, even the unextracted bee honey is spoiled. Explaining
this, Chanakya says that even though a man should save, he should also
keep donating. By doing this, while on one hand, he earns respect/honour,
on the other hand, he enjoys unrestricted pleasures in the other world.
 Chapter 12

12.1 In this shloka, Chanakya describes a happy family man. He says that
a man can be said to be happy, if he and his family members are filled with
happiness. Where there is all-round happiness and pleasure, the wife has a
sweet nature and is loyal, the children are intelligent and well educated;
sufficient funds are available, the servants are obedient and loyal; where
the guests are appropriately welcomed and looked after, God's worship is
practised and saints are welcomed-such a home is filled with happiness.
People residing in such a heavenly abode are very lucky.

12.2 On the miracles of donation, Chanakya says a donation is never

wasted. In fact, the donated amount is received back ten-fold. So, a man
should donate as much as he can to the needy and Brahmins in difficulty.
By doing this, his donation opens doors for him to get more wealth.
12.3 On public dealings, Chanakya says that man should be expert in
public dealings. This will ensure that he is always happy. Public dealings
cover polite dealing with servants, affectionate dealing with relations and a
tough stand with evil persons. In addition, it covers an affectionate and
gentle behaviour towards gentlemen and scholars a courageous stand
against enemies, an enduring and respectful behaviour towards teachers
and witty behaviour towards women. Anyone following these will lead a
happy life in the society.

12.4 In this shloka, Chanakya has defined degenerate and selfish persons.
He says that those persons, who refrain from donating, who think that the
study of the Vedas is a waste, who consider visiting saints/ascetics is
pointless, who have never visited religious places, who have amassed
immoral wealth, who remain behind the facade of arrogance and vanity,
are degenerate, evil and selfish. They only live for themselves and are not
concerned with others. Addressing such persons, Chanakya says that their
life is worthless. They are only dead weight on this earth. They are better
dead than alive. They should relinquish their life at the earliest, otherwise
they will only promote sin and wrong doings.

12.5 Chanakya says that it is impossible to change what God has destined
in one's fate. In his lifetime, a man acts and reaps accordingly. If the kareel
bush does not bloom in spring, then it is no fault of spring; if the owl
cannot see in daytime, it is useless to blame the sun; if the rain drops do
not fall in the cuckoos mouth, then it is no fault of the clouds. Similarly,
the difficulties and hardships which a man bears during his life, are no
fault of his. These are pre-destined.
12.6 Even though it has been said that man is affected by good or bad
company, but Chanakya believes that a gentleman is not affected by being
in evil man's company, for any period of time. Like the sandalwood tree
does not become poisonous, even though poisonous snakes rest on it and
like the flower which grows in the soil, does not carry its smell, similarly a
gentleman who remains in the company of evil persons, does not shed his
righteousness and good deeds.

12.7 A meeting with a gentleman or a saint can get you their sacred
blessings whereas to get the blessings from the holy shrines, we need to
undertake long trips.

12.8 A stranger asked a Brahmin, "who is great in this city?" The Brahmin
replied "The cluster of palm trees." The stranger asked again, "Who is the
most benevolent person?" The Brahmin replied, "Washer man who
collects the clothes in the morning and returns them in the evening." He
again questioned, "Who is the most able person?" The Brahmin replied,
"Everyone is able in stealing other's wives and wealth." The stranger again
asked, "How can you live in such a city?" The Brahmin replied, "like a
worm lives in filth." In this shloka, Chanakya has highlighted the rampant
faults in the society.
12.9 Chanakya has considered that home like a crematorium, where
Brahmins are not respected/honoured, whose residents are averse to
donating, where study and reading of Vedas is not practised, where
havan/yagna are not performed. He says that such an abode is filled with
ignorance, poverty, sickness, sorrows and difficulties. The persons residing
in such a home are like corpses. Therefore, for enjoying happy family life,
men should continue to perform acts of worship/prayer, donation and
Brahmin reverence.

12.10 In this shloka, Chanakya has identified the true companions of a

person bereft of allurement/wealth. He says that for a recluse, truth is like
a mother, knowledge is like a father, religion is like a brother, compassion
is like a sister, peace is like a wife and forgiveness is like a son. In reality,
in this destructible world, they are the true relations/friends. That is why,
even a recluse is not alone.

12.11 Life and death are the two faces of a coin. A man's body starts with
life and ends with death. That is why, the body has been called
destructible. Beauty, youth, strength, intelligence- everything gets
gradually destroyed. Nobody knows when his end will come. So,
Chanakya has advised a man to be duty-conscious. He says that every
moment man should be involved in performing good deeds. In it lies his
welfare.

12.12 In this shloka, Chanakya describes different type of pleasure

providing things for different living species. He says for a Brahmin, an
invitation to a feast is very pleasing. For cows, availability of green grass
everyday is pleasing. For women, it is pleasing if their husbands are in full
spirits everyday. But for himself, Chanakya finds pleasure in conflict. He
says that destruction of war is like a celebration for him.
12.13 Chanakya says that the persons who consider others' women as
mothers, others' wealth as dirt and treat others as equals, as
saintsgentlemen. That is the persons with character, tolerance,
contentment, generosity and compassion are the true gentlemen.

12.14 A gentleman is bestowed with virtues. He has qualities like feeling

for religion, sweet nature, willingness to donate, affability, respect for
Gurus, maturity, politeness, generosity, knowledge of scriptures, good
taste and pleasant nature. Against this, the persons without these qualities
are evil persons.

12.15 In this shloka, Chanakya says that God is supreme. He believes that
only God is powerful, extremely kind-hearted, ruler of all the three worlds
and all-pervading. Explaining this, he says that the 'Kalpavriksha' fulfills
all the desires of a man, but it is only wood. The 'Sumeruparvat' has
deposits of vast treasurers, but it is only stone. The Sun's rays are
illuminating but are intense, whereas the Moon illuminates and cools but is
spotted. The sea inspite of being vast contains salty water and 'Kamdeva' is
without a body. Even though 'Bali' is considered a great donor, he belongs
to the demon race. Similarly, 'Kamdhenu' who fulfills all the desires of
man, is a cow. Oh Lord! None of these unlike you are blemishless, radiant,
tolerant, generous and devotee loving; no one can compare with you. So,
Oh Lord! You are the supreme power.
12.16 A man can definitely learn something or the other from the living
things around him. Chanakya has established this saying in this shloka. He
says that one must imbibe knowledge from wherever he can. Princes have
politeness and courtesy. Imbibing these qualities makes man kind hearted.
We can learn the art of affectionate-cum-sweet speech from scholars and
lying from gamblers. Also we must imbibe the traits of deception/cunning
from women.

12.17 Spending more than your earning, fighting with others without any
reason and mating with all types of women-these three acts propel man
and his family towards ruin. So, a man should make all efforts to stay
away from these acts, otherwise he will be ruined in no time.

12.18 In the present times, some persons are hoarding food items while
others are amassing wealth. Addressing such persons, Chanakya says that
Oh foolish man! At the time of birth of the child itself, God takes care of
his food. Whatever he is destined to get, nobody can snatch it from him.
So, instead hoarding food and amassing wealth, focus on being religious.
Even animals are able to feed themselves, but only man has the good
fortune of earning blessings by performing religious acts. So, perform
religious acts and be blessed. This will ensure shaping of your future in
this and the other world.

12.19 In this shloka, Chanakya says that like drops can fill a pot, merging
of drops can form a river, by adding pennies, a man can become wealthy.
Similarly, by regular study, for man there is no knowledge which is
unattainable. Likewise, if a man is involved in religious activities
everyday, then he can amass a hoard of blessings. So, a man should spend
most of his time in righteous activities.

12.20 Like a wild pumpkin even after fully ripening does not become
sweet that is, it remains bitter, similarly, an evil person, howsoever aged he
becomes, retains his cruelty and sins. Even at an elderly age, he continues
to scheme. So, a man should be judged on his abilities rather than his age.
Only then it is possible to know his true nature.
 Chapter 13

13.1 Chanakya considers having a short life-span of doing good deeds

better than a purposeless long life-span. He says that a long life with
sorrows and sins is very painful. Such a life has no meaning. Against this,
if a man's life is filled with good deeds, even a short life is a pleasure.
Whatever his age, a man should do good deeds. His welfare rests in it.

13.2 In this shloka, Chanakya, advising persons who reminisce the past
and repeatedly feel sorrow or disappointment, says that the past never
returns, the events which have happened cannot be changed. So,
remembering them repeatedly does not help. Similarly, a man is totally
ignorant of what is going to happen in the future. So, worrying about it is
also a waste. A man should only focus on the present. If he improves his
present, then his future will also be bright.

13.3 Highlighting the importance of good behaviour and nature, Chanakya

says that without too much effort, only by good conduct and disposition a
man can satisfy a scholar, a gentleman and father. Similarly, by sweet talk,
he can please and satisfy friends, relations and Pundits. In other words, for
a person with good behaviour and sweet talk, nothing is impossible.
13.4 In this shloka, Chanakya has explained the nature of a gentleman. He
says that a saint or gentleman have a strange nature. Whereas most persons
commit numerous sinful acts to attain wealth, wealth for them is like a
blade of grass or straw. Wealth has no value in their eyes. Even if they
become extremely wealthy, they do not display any arrogance or commit
any sins. There is no change in their humbleness. Physical pleasure or
change in status does not affect their behaviour.

13.5 Chanakya considers affection to be the root cause of all sorrows.

Clarifying this idea in this shloka, Chanakya says that when a man
develops affection for someone, then his life is guided by that person.
When that person is unhappy, then the person in affection is also unhappy.
Similarly, he feels happiness and fear according to that person. Only
affection repeatedly pushes his soul towards the life/death cycle. Against
this for a man free from affection, all are equal. He is not affected by
anyone's sorrow or happiness. He maintains the same feelings for everyone
in his heart. So, a scholar should shed excessive affection and lead a happy
life.

13.6 People, who only rely on fate, waste their valuable life. But the
persons, who avert crisis by their efforts and continue to confront adverse
circumstances, lead a happy life. Chanakya believes that though fate
cannot be changed, a man has to live whatever is fated; yet by efforts and
actions the fated adverse circumstances can be turned favourable. So, a
man should not shy away from efforts.

13.7 If the king of a kingdom is religious and talented, then the subjects of
that kingdom will also be religious and talented. If the king is a sinner,
then his subjects will also behave accordingly; because the subjects follow
the king. That is why it is said "As the king, so are his subjects".

13.8 Since a criminal always promotes sin, immorality and wrong acts, he
only damages the society. According to Chanakya, a criminal may be
alive, but is like a dead person. Against this, a person, who has performed
auspicious and good deeds, is remembered even after his death. His
reputation and fame keep him alive. So, a man should try to earn
respect/honour and fame by his good deeds, so that even after his death,
his memory lives.

13.9 Religious scriptures list four valours-religion, economics, sex and

salvation. Of these, economics and sex have been called the valours of this
world and religion and salvation have been called the valours for the other
world. All four provide purpose to human life. Without these valours, the
life is a waste. So, a man should try to achieve at least one valour.

13.10 Describing the thought process and behaviour of cruel and evil
persons, Chanakya says that it is the fundamental nature of evil persons to
envy the progress of others. Apart from trying to advance themselves, they
try to put down others. But on failing, they resort to criticising to uplift
themselves and degrade others. This is how they try to prove an able
person, to be inept. A person having such thoughts is an evil person.

13.11 In this shloka, Chanakya believes that the mind is the root cause of
all bonds and sorrows. He says that God provides the soul, human life,
only for its salvation. But a man gets attracted towards weaknesses like
sex, anger, greed, liquor, affection, etc. and goes astray from his aim. The
sole reason for this is the mind. It is only the mind which pushes a man
towards the sense of sexual enjoyment and leads him towards sins. A man
under the hypnosis of the mind can never free himself from the cycle of
life death. So, a man should contain all weaknesses of the mind and
exercise control over it. Only then it will be possible for him to improve
his life in the other world.

13.12 Human body is destructible, so, a man should not be conceited about
it. Any man, who sheds conceit and develops the passion for worshipping
God in his mind, then wherever his mind wanders, he still can meditate.
Anyone, who is able to understand the true relationship between body and
soul, can meditate irrespective of the circumstances.

13.13 One should give up the desire for all kinds of wishes and pleasures.
Everything is in Gods hands-he decides who gets what and who gives
what. So, everyone should learn to be satisfied with what they have.

13.14 A man desires numerous wishes; some are fulfilled and others are
not. The fulfilment of the wishes depends on fate and his actions. His fate
decides the rewards based on his actions. If a man wishes for worldly
pleasures in return for his bad deeds, then his wish will never be fulfilled.
So, man should perform good deeds for favourable rewards.
13.15 It is the law of nature that you shall reap what you sow. Like the calf
can identify its mother amongst hundreds of cows, the act identifies its
originator. In fact, a man's actions and its results are linked. So, perform
only good deeds to expect favourable rewards.

13.16 Persons, who lead aimless life, can neither find peace at home nor in
the forest. Their life is like a dead weight which benefits no one. So, to
have an aim in life is essential. Persons who decide on their life's aim
never go astray.

13.17 In this shloka, Chanakya clarifies the importance of dedication. He

says that any task undertaken with full dedication never fails to reward.
Like a labourer toils and digs the earth with a spade, is able to extract
underground water, similarly, a student should learn the knowledge stored
with his Guru by dedicated service.

13.18 In the 'Vedas' and 'Puranas', the single letter 'Om' has been called the
creation 'Mantra' (hymn). Chanakya has expressed its importance in this
shloka. He says that by reciting the 'Om Mantra', a man can easily secure
the divine knowledge related with Brahma. The person, who preaches the
divine knowledge, gives the right direction to the society. Such a Guru
must always be revered. But anyone, who disrespects them, after bearing
extreme suffering in the form of a dog, will be born in the form of a
demon.

13.19 Chanakya agrees that at the end of this age, the 'Sumeru' mountain
will be displaced, all the seven seas will cross their limits and submerge
the earth. But he believes that even in such a crisis, great men and saints
will remain steadfast on their vow and resolve. Such gentlemen are
trustworthy. Only because of such persons, this earth is protected from
calamities.
 Chapter 14

14.1 According to Chanakya, diamond, pearl, emerald, gold, etc. are like
pieces of stone. He says amongst all the jewels on earth-water, food and
sweet talk are the most precious jewels. Water and food help a man to
survive; nourish his body and enhance his strength/wisdom. By sweet talk
even the enemy can be befriended. But if any person hankers after the
stones, leaving these jewels, his entire life is filled with sorrows. Even
though one can live without those stones, it is hard to imagine survival
without these valuable jewels.

14.2 A man is rewarded or punished according to his deeds. Nobody can

change this law of nature. The sorrows, griefs, worries, restrictions and
crises which, a man faces in his life, are the consequences of his sinful
deeds. Against this his good deeds will enable him to live a sorrow- and
conflict-free happy life. So, a man should perform superior deeds.

14.3 Even though wealth, property, friends, woman and kingdom can be
obtained repeatedly, human form is attained only once. Once it is
annihilated, it is impossible to attain it again. So, a man should perform
good deeds and use it for worthy causes. Only the life of people, who
perform good deeds everyday, is a success.

14.4 "There is great strength in unity" this saying is famous from times
immemorial. Chanakya has explained this saying in this shloka. He says
that like a group of hyenas can fight a lion, a roof made of bundle of
straws stops water, similarly, if many weak persons unite, then they can
face even the mightiest person.

14.5 In this shloka, Chanakya says that if a drop of oil is dropped in a bowl
of water, it spreads all over. An evil person cannot keep a secret; he
spreads it in no time. Even if an intelligent person gains a little knowledge,
he is able to learn more. Similarly, Chanakya says that if donation is given
to a deserving person, then it is received back by the donor ten-fold.

14.6 In this shloka, Chanakya has told about a man's restless nature. He
says that a man's nature lacks stability, so it keeps changing every minute.
He develops the feelings of a recluse when he listens to a religious
discourse or when he sees a corpse in a crematorium, the worldly
attachment/wealth seems worthless to him. But after his return from there,
he again gets trapped in the material world and starts amassing. This
restlessness is the biggest stumbling block, in his attaining salvation. So, a
man should adopt all the possible means to control it.

14.7 It is usually seen that a man's conscious is stirred after performing

bad or derogatory deeds and the feeling of regret sets in. But if realises
what is good or bad before indulging in bad deeds, then he will be get rid
of doing the bad deeds forever. An evil person into the mire of bad deeds
disgraces not only himself but his family also. So, one must refrain from
doing derogatory deeds.

14.8 Whenever a man achieves supremacy or success in any work, he

develops a sense of arrogance. Cautioning on this state, Chanakya says
that the world is full of exceptional donors, devotees, gallant, worshippers
and intelligent people. So, a man should not become arrogant, on his
ability of donation, devotion, bravery, worship, courage, knowledge of
science, politeness and strategic prowess. Anyone, who becomes arrogant,
sins in a hurry and is ruined.

14.9 In this shloka, Chanakya tells about the significance of true love. He
says that the bond of true love binds mutually to great depths. In such a
state, even if one is away, the other feels him to be close by. In contrast, if
there is no affection, then even if the other person is close by, there is
detachment. Expanding on this argument, Chanakya says that if a man
develops affectionate attachment with God, then he is always close by. So,
man should tie affectionate bonding with God by worship.

14.10 On the benefits of sweet talk, Chanakya says that like the snake
charmer charms the snake with his flute, the hunter tames the deer,
similarly, a man can control anyone by sweet talk. He can win over
enemies by sweet talk and all his wishes are fulfilled.

14.11 King, fire, Guru and woman, according to Chanakya, for all the four,
neither their proximity nor their avoidance is good; it can lead to a man's
complete ruin. The proximity to king and Guru makes him arrogant and
becomes blemished; whereas staying away leads to neglect. The nearness
to fire results in burning and turning to ash; whereas staying away from it
diminishes its heat and light. Closeness to woman generates many flaws,
whereas separation might cause her to go astray. To safeguard from this
situation, Chanakya says that a man should find a solution by taking a
middle path. He should remain neither too close nor too far from them.

14.12 In this shloka, Chanakya has described certain things/people where

man needs to exercise caution while dealing with them. He says that fire,
water, woman, fool, snake and royal family while they are useful for a
man, but may be ruinous for him if he is careless. So, they must be dealt
with due caution.

14.13 Chanakya considers the life of such persons meaningful who have
the qualities of compassion, love, welfare, tolerance, etc. In fact, according
to him, only such persons deserve to live life. Life is meaningless, if these
qualities are missing. Therefore, a man should imbibe these qualities, so
that his life is successful.

14.14 In this shloka, Chanakya, clarifying his opinion on criticising others,

says that it is the most depraving and dreadful deed. If a man can give it
up, then he can control the entire world. In other words, by giving up
criticising, all the pleasures will favour a man.

14.15 According to Chanakya, only that person is intelligent, who speaks

at the right time, who shows heroism according to his strength and
displays anger as per his capacity. If however, a man digresses from the
topic of discussion does not consider his strength and gets angry
unnecessarily, then he is considered an intelligent fool.

14.16 In this shloka, Chanakya says that different people have different
perspective for a particular thing. For a saint, a woman is like a corpse, but
to a lusty person, she appears like an image of looks/beauty. For a hyena,
she is nothing but a lump of meat. Here Chanakya clarifies that it is the
man's point of view which enhances or depreciates the value of a thing. It
appears as if he wishes to see it.

14.17 Chanakya has advised scholars to keep certain things secret. He says
that a scholar should never discuss with others his knowledge of an
unfailing medicine, his religious customs, his domestic problems, about his
sex with a woman, bad food and abusive discussions. One should keep
such things to oneself. If he discusses such things with others, then his
being a scholar is useless. He will be compared to a fool.

14.18 Till spring arrives, the cuckoo remains quiet, but once spring arrives,
Cuckoo spreads his melodious voice in all the directions. By quoting this
example, Chanakya has given a very meaningful advice to scholars. He
says that only at the right time intelligent people should take up the tasks
suited for that time. Against this, people who undertake tasks unmindful of
the time always fail.

14.19 If there is a slip in religious activities, then it does not yield any
reward. If life-saving medicines are not used as directed, they can be life
threatening. Excessive waste of food and wealth leads to poverty. You will
face several hardships by not following Guru's orders properly. Therefore,
Chanakya has directed that religion, medicines, wealth, paddy and Guru's
orders must be carefully handled.

14.20 People, who have a strong concern for self-welfare, guiding them,
Chanakya says that they should shun the company of evil persons and join
the company of gentlemen. Its effect will destroy sexual lust, as well as,
impure thoughts and a man will move towards the right path. That is by
giving up affection wealth and sexual lust, a man should get engrossed in
God worship and charity. His well-being lies in it.
 Chapter 15

15.1 Stating that amongst all the good deeds, kindness is the most superior,
Chanakya says that anyone, whose heart is filled with happiness, by being
kind to others, does not require to grow matted hair (jataaye) or apply ash
(bhasma) to gain knowledge and salvation. Even after hundreds of years of
self-mortification (tapasya) what is even rare for ascetics, that knowledge
and salvation can be obtained easily by being kind to mankind. By
imbibing this quality, a man finds a place in the list of dignitaries. So, the
feeling of kindness must always be preserved in the heart.

15.2 From the Vedic times, Gurus have been called the source of gaining
knowledge. Chanakya has also described the greatness of Gurus in this
shloka. He says that a man learns the deep secrets of Brahma-Shakti, Soul-
God and knowledge of the elements from the Guru only. With the
blessings of the Guru only, a man breaks free from the arena of
affection/wealth and becomes capable to come face-to-face with Brahma.
In fact, the Guru acts like a bridge between God and worshipper. The debts
of such a Guru cannot be repaid even by the most valuable things on earth.

15.3 In this shloka, Chanakya has advised gentlemen to stay away from
evil persons. Suggesting the solution, Chanakya says they are like thorns,
so either crush them with your shoes or take an alternate path. That is
either finish them or stay away from them.

15.4 Through this shloka, Chanakya has described about physical

cleanliness, habits and religious practices. According to him, those who
wear dirty clothes, whose teeth are dirty, who overeat, who use offensive
language, and who sleep during sunrise or sunset, such persons lose their
grace, health, beauty and even God deserts them. Everyone avoids such
persons, howsoever rich they may be or even if they belong to the highest
caste.

15.5 Explaining the wonders of wealth, Chanakya says that if a man

becomes rich, then even strangers become familiar; wife, son, friends,
relations also express affection and become personal. But if some rich
person turns poor, even near the ones distance themselves. Wife, son,
friends, near ones, relations leave him one after another. This shows that
wealth is a true well-wisher of a man. Anyone, who has wealth, also
controls happiness.

15.6 For getting wealth, a man commits many derogatory acts. But
Chanakya says that wealth earned like that is dissipative. He says that
wealth earned by sinning and malpractice lasts at the most for ten years. In
the eleventh year, he loses all this wealth with interest. Against this, wealth
earned through hard work and honesty is retained lifelong and it keeps
growing. So, a man should refrain from earning wealth by sinning.
15.7 A man's influence in the society is very important. For 'Rahu'
(mythological dragons head), even nectar killed him, whereas for Lord
Shiva, even the poison consumed by him turned to nectar. Even after
consuming poison, he was alive and became famous as 'Neelkanth' (person
with blue neck). In other words, even an improper act committed by an
influential person seems proper to people. Against this, even a proper act
performed by an inadequate person draws suspicion of the people. Doubts
are expressed over it.

15.8 Chanakya considers the food left over after feeding the Brahmins till
contentment, as superior food. Similarly, the love for others, according to
him, is true love. He considers the person, who does not commit sins, to be
intelligent; the religion which protects from sins, falsehood and derogatory
acts, as the true religion.

15.9 Even if the diamond is tied to the feet and glass is adorned on the
head, it does not diminish the value of the diamond. Likewise, placing a
scholar on a lower seat and the fool on a higher seat, does not diminish the
status of the scholar. The scholar will be compared with scholars and the
fool will be counted amongst fools. For a scholar, a higher or lower level
has no meaning.

15.10 Commenting on knowledge, Chanakya says that this world is filled

with immense knowledge. The human soul, even after taking hundreds of
births, cannot learn all the knowledge. But like the swan can drink only the
milk from diluted milk and leave the water, similarly, a man like the swan
should extract the essential elements like milk from the many scriptures
and other studies. That is, a man should fully understand the meaning of
the Vedas in the short span of his life.
15.11 The guests who come from distant places, tired travelers and people
seeking shelter are like God. So, a man should first feed them their fill and
then eat himself. But the persons, who eat themselves first without feeding
them are like demons.

15.12 People, who even after studying religious scriptures like Vedas, etc.
remain ignorant of its essential elements, who do not have knowledge of
Soul-God, remain devoid of knowledge of their own spiritual self.
Chanakya has compared such persons with a ladle, which stirs the juicy
curry but which remains unaware of its taste and usefulness. Chanakya
says that such a study is a waste.

15.13 In this shloka, highlighting the importance of Brahmins, Chanakya

says that Brahmin in the avatar of a boat, always moves in the opposite
direction in the world in the avatar of the sea. People, who take shelter
under the deck of the boat, cross the sea, whereas the people on the deck of
the boat drown in the sea. That is, the world of allurement wealth pushes
one towards sexual lusts. In this world, Brahmin is the only boat which
moves in the opposite direction and heads towards salvation. Persons, who
consider Brahmins above all, are in their service, who pay obeisance to
their feet and behave as they do, attain salvation. Against this, persons who
consider themselves superior to Brahmins, who insult them, are unable to
free themselves from the life-death cycle. They are reborn again and again,
from different 'Yonis' (organ of generation) and bear untold sufferings.
15.14 Even though the Moon is said to be the storehouse of nectar, lord of
medicines, immortal and lustrous, once the Sun rises over the horizon, all
its radiance is lost and it becomes lusterless and disappears. Similarly, if a
person goes to anyone's house as a beggar, then his respect, honour and
pride are ruined. Therefore, a man should labour, so that the need to beg
does not arise.

15.15 Chanakya says that in a foreign place, a man should mould himself
according to the situation and his income. Like the beetle that normally
lives in the lily leaves and is used to being immersed in the juice from its
pollen but in a foreign place, it has to be satisfied with the odourless and
tasteless juice of the thorny bush. Likewise in a foreign place a man should
be satisfied with the available food. It will facilitate him to change
favourably for that place.

15.16 In this shloka, Chanakya has presented a dialogue between Lord

Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Once Lord Vishnu asked Goddess Lakshmi
"Why are you displeased with the Brahmins"? Then Goddess Lakshmi
replied "Oh Lord! Hermit Agastya in his anger had gulped my father, the
Ocean. The great Saint Brighu had kicked you in the chest. The superior
Brahmins worship my sister Goddess Saraswati, instead of me. They keep
on uprooting lotus flowers from my abode to pray/worship Lord Shiva.
That is why, I am displeased with the Brahmins".
Even though this dialogue appears to be ordinary, through it, Chanakya
has shown that Brahmins never give importance to wealth. For them, there
is nothing more important than God's worship.
15.17 Chanakya has called the love-bond to be most superior to all other
bonds. In this context, he says that the beetle that has the capability to bore
wood, becomes inert when closeted inside the delicate lotus flower. That is
because he loves the lotus flower and the fear of causing any damage to it,
makes him inert. He loves the beauty of the lotus. He fears that as soon as
its beauty ends, its love will also end. So, he ends his life for the sake of its
love.

15.18 With a man's birth, certain natural qualities manifest themselves and
they remain till death. In this context, Chanakya says that even after the
sandalwood tree is cut, its fragrance does not disappear, even after the
elephant ages, its sexual craving does not cool off, even after the sugarcane
is crushed its sweetness does not finish, similarly, when a man born in a
high-status family with virtuous qualities becomes poor, his politeness,
humility and morality do not disappear. He behaves gracefully even in
crisis.
 Chapter 16

16.1 In the Vedas, etc. and other religious scriptures, it has been said that
getting a human life form is very singular. It is only after undergoing
hardships of several births the soul is fortunate to be born in the human life
form. So, instead of wasting the life in sexual lusts, it should be used for
attaining salvation. Salvation can only be attained by a man when he sets
right his life in this and the other world. In this shloka, Chanakya tells
about it. He says that to set right this life, anyone who has not earned
sufficient funds, who does not worship God for freeing himself from this
worldly illusion, who has never copulated, such a person does not benefit
in this world or set right his other world. Such persons only cut the tree in
the form of mother's youth with an axe. In other words, their life neither
provides any happiness to the mother nor earns them any meaningful
credit. So, Chanakya says that a man should enjoy all the worldly
pleasures in this world; but at the same time, undertake religious activities
to try and improve life in the other world.

16.2 In this shloka, Chanakya has described the playful tendency of

women. He says that they have a restless nature. They talk to someone but
look lustfully at someone else. They worry about someone in the mind and
yearn for someone else in the heart. A woman's love is not for one only. So
their affection should not be taken as attachment.

16.3 Any man who thinks that the beautiful woman who shows affection
and acts playfully towards him, is in love with him, soon loses everything.
He behaves like a puppet and dances on the tune of that woman.

16.4 Even though Chanakya was fully aware of the ills of wealth, he had
also accepted its importance and influence. He says that the intoxication of
wealth is so powerful that on attaining it even a wise/sensible and learned
person turns arrogant. The greed for it places a man into difficulties again
and again. Intoxicated by it, he gets associated with beautiful women.
Thereafter he says that, till today, no man has won over death. Nor has
anyone earned respect by being a beggar. There is no one in this world,
who has not got into difficulties on account of evil persons. So, it is much
better to be rich than be poor.

16.5 In adverse times, a man loses his wisdom and sense. Even scholars in
the midst of a crisis lose their ability to think and understand. In this
context, citing an example, Chanakya says that a person in the midst of a
crisis loses his sense, like Lord Rama did when he chased a golden deer.
Even though he knew that there are no golden deers, he chased it to
capture it. That is to say that in adverse times, even intelligent persons act
foolish.
16.6 In this shloka, Chanakya has accepted the importance of eminent
qualities and virtuosity. He says that on account of them, even an ordinary
person advances towards the top. Like a crow sitting on top of a building
does not become an eagle, similarly, a person occupying a high seat does
not become great. For greatness, a man must possess good qualities and be
virtuous. By having them, even if he is born in a lower caste, he can get
respect/honour in the society.

16.7 Between having wealth and possessing eminent qualities, Chanakya

has said that the latter is more influential and important. He says that in the
society, good qualities are respected. So, having lots of wealth has no
meaning. Like instead of the full Moon, the smaller Moon of the next day
is worshipped, similarly, a poor person of lower caste possessing good
qualities is treated respectfully.

16.8 According to Chanakya, a person devoid of virtues, who is praised

behind his back, is talented. He says that he earns a respectful place
amongst people on account of his talent. Against this, even if the self-
praiser is Lord Indra, he cannot get that respect just by having his stature.
That is the person, who is praised by the world, truly deserves the respect.

16.9 Like a jewel becomes more attractive when it is laid in gold, whereas
if it laid in iron, it loses its grace, similarly, if a wise person is talented,
then it is most appropriate. By his wisdom, making proper use of his talent,
he takes care of the welfare of not only the society, but also of his family.
So, it is necessary for a talented person to be wise.
16.10 Until such time a talented and wise person does not get his rightful
place, he remains worthless and humiliated. The situation is like that of the
diamond still under the ground, which not having reached its rightful
place, is treated like a stone. Only when it is laid in gold, then the viewers
praise it. Likewise only when a talented person gets to his rightful place,
his talents are accepted by the society.

16.11 Wealth obtained by sinful acts or by causing suffering/ distress to

someone, becomes cursed and ruins a man. Such wealth causes even
gentlemen to take the path of sin. One must avoid such wealth otherwise
very soon he will be ruined along with his family.

16.12 According to Chanakya, wealth is important and useful, only if it

does not belong to one person but benefits the whole society. In this
context, he says that the wealth amassed for the use of one person is like
the virtuous woman of a noble family, who gives pleasure to him only. So
her being or not being does not make any difference to the society. Against
this the wealth, which is like a prostitute who satisfies and gives pleasure
to all the residents apart from the visitors, is useful. So, instead of
amassing wealth for vested interests, it should be used for the welfare of
the society.

16.13 In this shloka, Chanakya has clarified that a man is never contented
with wealth, life, woman and food items. As much as he gets them, they
still remain insufficient. A man is born with dissatisfaction/discontent and
leaves this world with them. There is no end to his desire. He always
remains agitated and distressed. So, a man should try to save himself from
it.
16.14 The Vedas and other religious scriptures describe in detail the
importance of not only food, water, clothes and land donation but also of
Brahmayagya, Devayagya, etc. and several other holy yagyas. But he says
that their relevance is limited till the fulfilment of the fruits of the acts.
Once, a man obtains the fruits of the acts, their effect is exhausted. Against
this, the donation given to a worthy person is never in vain. Its effect
remains even after the fulfilment of the fruits of the act. So, donation
should only be given to a worthy person.

16.15 Everyone is scared of a beggar; near-dear ones, friends, etc. also

desert him. They shun helping the needy. This saying has been very
eloquently presented by Chanakya in this shloka. He says that a blade of
straw and cotton are the lightest things in this world. But the beggar is
figuratively even lighter than these two. Even though a slight breeze blows
away the blade of grass and cotton, a gale cannot blow away the beggar.
Explaining the reasoning behind it, Chanakya says that lest the beggar
should demand anything, even the breeze changes its direction, that is, the
beggar is humiliated by everyone.

16.16 Chanakya says that being disgraced is more painful and damaging
than death. He says that it is appropriate for a disgraced person to die
rather than remain alive. A disgraced person is humiliated on every
occasion; the society views him with hatred; near-dear ones' and friends'
behaviour becomes derogatory towards him. Even his wife and son tend to
avoid him. A respectful death gives more relief than living such a life.

16.17 Sweet talk delights and pleases the mind. By sweet talk, one can
even win over enemies. In this shloka, Chanakya has accepted its
importance. He says that a man should always talk sweetly. A melodious
voice pleases and delights everyone. Sweet talk does not cost anything. So,
give up bitter talk and embrace sweet talk. It is a sure-spell to win over the
world.

16.18 Considering the world to be a bitter tree, Chanakya says that two
sweet and nectar-bearing fruits representing cultured language and
company of saints grow on this tree. On the one hand, by using cultured
language, it is possible to win over everyone's heart, on the other hand, the
company of saints/sages converts even evil persons to gentlemen. So, a
man should definitely eat these two fruits.

16.19 Good characteristics are carried forward from the previous birth.
Being charitable, educated, having restraint, virtue, etc. like good traits are
carried forward from several previous births by good fortune in this life
also. Life must be made purposeful by making use of them.

16.20 In this shloka, Chanakya has clarified the importance of education

and wealth. He says that in the time of need, the knowledge in books and
others' wealth does not help. In crisis, only the wealth saved by a man
helps. Similarly, the student, who can put the education into practice, can
benefit from it in life. So, a man should definitely save wealth for crisis.
The students should make good use of the education in life as much as
possible.
 Chapter 17

17.1 To learn any knowledge properly and become proficient in it, a Guru
is required. In other words, it is not possible to gain knowledge without a
Guru. Chanakya concurs with this ancient saying. He says that a person,
who forsakes his Guru, is like that immoral woman, who is humiliated in
the society. Even after bearing a son, she remains without the glory
associated with motherhood. Any person, who leaves the Gurus ashram
and wanders around to gain knowledge, even if he gains knowledge from
anywhere, he becomes a laughing stock in the gathering of scholars. Such
a person, even though he is knowledgeable, is not respected in the society.

17.2 'Tit for Tat'-Chanakya supported this saying. He believed there should
be a reaction for every action. In other words, a man should retaliate in the
same manner as he has been treated. Explaining in detail, Chanakya says
that if a man behaves with you like a gentleman, then you must also
reciprocate accordingly. However, if a person intends to harm you, then he
should also be paid back in the same coin.

17.3 In this shloka, Chanakya has discussed about having devotion for
hard work. He says anything which is impossible for a man to achieve, is
beyond his limits, can be achieved by devotion or untiring hard work. The
power of hard work is limitless; its strength can even make possible the
impossible. So, a man should not shy away from hard work; rather he
should make all possible efforts and by untiring hard work, make his life
happy.

17.4 In this shloka, Chanakya says that if a man is greedy, then he need not
worry about the evil persons, because greed is his biggest enemy, which
leads him towards ruin. The criticiser and back-biter need not be
concerned by criminals. By criticizing, they themselves act like criminals.
No devotion is greater than truth. The blaze of truth eliminates all the
perversions of the body. Therefore, there is no need for the truthful person
to undertake devotional penance. If a man's mind is polluted and impure,
then even by visiting sacred shrines his afflicted heart is not purified.
Contrarily, anyone whose heart is clear and pure, there is no need for him
to visit sacred shrines. If the heart is filled with affection, then all other
qualities are secondary, whereas compared to fame, the radiance of all the
jewellery is inferior. After gaining knowledge, a man learns the meaning
of life. It becomes easier for him to understand the mystery of Soul-God
and sighting of Brahma. Such a person becomes free of the worldly
attachments. That is why, he does not need the wealth which leads to
sexual lusts. An afflicted person bears suffering and pain every moment
and dies. For such a person death is the only way out. So, he should not
fear death.

17.5 Shankh and Goddess Lakshmi, both are considered to be the children
of Ratnakar Ocean. But one of them, Goddess Lakshmi, possesses
wealth/affluence and is worshipped in the world, whereas the other
wanders around with saints/hermits for alms. Inspite of being the brother
of wealthy affluent Goddess Lakshmi, Shankh begs for alms along with
the poor and worldly detached hermits. On account of spending his life
without donating, after death, he had to become a beggar. That is why,
Chanakya says that in order to preserve usefulness of one's knowledge, a
man should continue to donate as per his ability. This will ensure his
welfare in this and the other world.

17.6 A man's nature is like the bird flying in the sky. But not having wings
makes him helpless and he is forced to walk on the ground. Chanakya
considers some helplessness to be beneficial for man. He says that
helplessness keeps a man and his character from going astray. The lack of
power compels a man to turn celibate; the lack of wealth makes a man to
become a saint/hermit and a sick person starts worshipping God. The
compulsions of old age make a woman to become loyal to her husband. In
this context, Chanakya says if a man adopts such behaviour without any
compulsion, then his importance will be enhanced even more.

17.7 Chanakya says that giving donation is the best thing and most helpful.
He considers the donation of food and water to be the most meaningful
and fruitful amongst all donations. He says that feeding a hungry person
and offering water to a thirsty person is most holistically rewarding. So, as
compared to donating wealth, a man should donate food and water more
often. Following the religious scriptures, Chanakya also accepts the
importance of dwadashi (the twelfth day of each half of a lunar month).
Likewise, he considers the 'Gayatri Mantra' most superior and the one
which fulfills all the desires, amongst all mantras. He says that a man
should recite the Gayatri Mantra everyday. It eliminates all the
obstructions in life.

17.8 In this shloka, Chanakya has compared an evil person to poisonous

animals. He says that like snake, honeybee and scorpion contain poison
similarly, an evil person is also filled with deadly poison. The difference
being that the snakes poison is in its fangs, honeybee's poison in its
forehead and scorpions poison is in its tail; whereas the evil person's entire
body is poisonous. Anyone, who comes in his contact, cannot escape from
his evil effects. So, a man should stay away from an evil person.

17.9 Chanakya says that obeying the husband and being loyal to him are
ornaments of a woman. He says that a woman, who obeys even her
husband's minor wishes, her present life and other life, both are reformed.
Against this, if she fasts or undertakes religious vows without the
permission of her husband, then she can become the cause for his
unexpected death. After death, such women have to bear immense torture
in hell. So, a woman must obey her husband and be loyal to him these are
her duties.

17.10 Serving the husband is above all the other auspicious acts. This act
has been clarified by Chanakya in this shloka. He says that a loyal woman
who is continuously dedicated to serving her husband, need not donate,
fast, visit holy shrines or take dip in holy rivers. In fact, being devoted to
serving her husband, its self-purifies her.

17.11 Through this shloka, Chanakya has prompted a man to give up

superficial ostentation for self-satisfaction. He says that like the elegance
of the hand is not enhanced by wearing jewellery, bangles, etc. but by
donation; the body is cleansed by bathing rather than by applying
sandalwood paste; mental contentment rests in honour/respect and not in
food and salvation is attained by knowledge rather than by applying
vermilion or wearing ochercoloured clothes. Just like by superficial
ostentation or indulging in sexual lusts, mind does not attain peace or
becomes pure. For that inner satisfaction is required, which is only
possible by helping others, being kind, being virtuous and with donation.
17.12 People, who get shaved at the barbers' house, who apply sandalwood
paste on stone idols or who see their reflection in the water, Chanakya has
called them unwise, inspite of being knowledgeable. According to him,
such people ruin their own honour/respect.

17.13 Through this shloka, Chanakya says that like the consumption of
Tundi fruit (an intoxicating fruit) destroys wisdom and orris root develops
wisdom, likewise a woman robs man's strength and consumption of milk
enhances his strength. So, a man should avoid unnecessary and excessive
association with a woman.

17.14 According to Chanakya, a man should be filled with the feeling to

help others. A man's own welfare lies in helping others. Anyone whose
heart is filled with benevolence, never faces crisis. All the obstacles in
their path self-destruct and they succeed at every step. Men filled with
benevolence do not face sorrows and lead a happy life. So, a man should
help others as much as he can.

17.15 Having a pious and loyal wife, having son and daughter-in-law with
good qualities and having adequate wealth to meet the needs, Chanakya
considers all the three to be important for a man to lead a happy life. He
says that if a man gets these three things, then his home will become like
heaven and he will have no desire for any other heaven.
17.16 Like all living things in the world, a man also performs activities
like eating, sleeping, copulating, producing children and feels fear. From
this point of view, apart from the body structure, there is not much
difference between man and animals. But only his behaviour makes him
superior to animals. In it, true adherence to religion is most important. In
fact, anyone who performs religious activities and observes his duties,
deserves to be called a human. Anyone bereft of these qualities is like an
animal.

17.17 Like the beetles seeking intoxicant from the forehead of a unwise
elephant are not bothered by the flapping of its ears to fly them away, they
return to the lotus pond. But the elephant loses the grace of its forehead.
Similarly, if any evil person chases away a beggar, it makes no difference
to the beggar. He gets alms from another house. But the insulted beggar
does not go to him again for it would mar his reputation. So, a man should
refrain from such tendencies.

17.18 King, prostitute, 'Yum' (God of death), fire, smuggler, child, beggar
and the villages nuisance creator- these eight do not understand the
sorrows and distress of others. Their nature is to act as per their whims. So,
a man should not expect any kindness from them.

17.19 A man should never mock any helpless and afflicted person, because
tomorrow he may also be in the same situation. Chanakya has clarified it
further in this shloka. An impertinent boy laughing, asked an old woman
"Oh young girl! What are you searching?" Hearing his mocking tone, the
old woman said, "Due to my old age, my youth in the avatar of a pearl has
fallen down, I am searching it." In this context, Chanakya says that sooner
or later, a man has to definitely face old age. So, a man should refrain from
the tendency to mock others.

17.20 Sometimes, even one good quality overrides many bad qualities.
Because of only one good quality, inspite of having several bad qualities, a
man earns honour/respect in the society. In this context, Chanakya gives
the example of 'Ketki tree' (source of kewra essence-extract of pandanus
flower). He says that snakes habituate on the Ketki tree. It is crooked and
grows in slime but its fragrance bewitches everyone. This one good quality
covers all other bad qualities. Similarly, even if a man keeps company of
evil persons, is ugly looking, is born in low caste but is wise and
intelligent, inspite of having many bad qualities, he is respected in the
gathering of scholars.
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Published by
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ISBN 978-93-5048-809-6
Chanakya Neeti
by R.P. Jain

Edition
First, 2013

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