“Maxims of Chanakya” is the crystallised wisdom of Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, the Indian Philosopher-States-man, who helped Chandragupta Maurya establish the first unified state in Indian History in fourth century B.C.

Often called the Indian Machiavelli, Chanakya is known for his political acumen and statecraft which enabled him to win bloodless victories over his enemies, overthrow a tyrannical regime and prevent the balkanisation of India at a time when it was ravaged by foreign invasions.

The maxims of Chanakya, over one thousand in number, included in this book, culled from the three major works attributed to him: Arthasastra, Chanakyasutras and Chanakyarajanitisastra (sometimes knows as Chanakyanitidarpana), cover a wide range of subjects.

No branch of life or learning has been left untouched by the great political genius. He has something pithy to say on politics, administration, economics, ethics, education, health, sex and self-improvement.

In terseness of expression, no language, with the possible exception of Latin, can excel Sanskrit and the great master has used this wonderful language to such perfection that one is awestruck by the volume of message often conveyed in a couple of words.

The English translation of Chanakya’s original Sanskrit maxims captures their brevity and wisdom, for the benefit of a larger audience, not conversant with the Sanskrit language.

The introduction: “Chanakya His Life, Times and Work” adds to the value of this publication.

It is hoped that “Maxims of Chanakya” will prove an invaluable guide to the Legislator, the Administrator, the Planner and the Educationist-all those who shape a country’s policy or an individual’s future.