Chanakya Essay

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Introduction of CHANAKYA One of the greatest figures of wisdom and knowledge in theIndian history is Chanakya. He is estimated to have livedfrom 350 - 283 B.C. Chanakya is touted as the "Pioneer Economist of India". Chanakya was the adviser and PrimeMinister of Emperor Chandragupta. Chanakya was a professor at the University of Takshila (located in presentday Pakistan) and was an expert in commerce, warfare,economics, etc. His famous works include Chanakya Neeti,Arthashastra and Neetishastra.Chanakya is also known by the name of Kautilya andVishnugupta as is mentioned in his text. His famous work called Arthashastra is a classic example of statecraft and politics and is read in Europe even today. It basicallyconsists of the principles of politics and how the stateworks. An able ruler has to be a ruthless leader to makesure that the state works smoothly and efficiently. Thelegends associated with Chanakya are very interesting and provide a testimony of his greatness. Legends: • When Chanakya was born he had a full set of teeth,which is a sign that he would become a king or anemperor. But since he was born in a Brahminfamily, it was considered inappropriate. Thus, histeeth were broken and it was predicted that hewould make another person a king and rule throughhim. • Even as a child, Chanakya had the qualities of a born leader. His level of knowledge was beyondchildren of his age. • Chanakya was thrown out of the court of King Nanda as he was a blunt man and spoke his mindclearly. Chanakya swore he would take revenge. • Chanakya comes across Chandragupta as a youngchild. Even at that age, he was a born leader andshowed the qualities of an able Emperor. He wasthe guiding force behind Chandragupta and the vital person who made him an able Emperor. • Chanakya adds poison in little amounts daily inChandragupta's food in order to make him immuneto poison,
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