Chanakya
A teacher, philosopher and economist
About Chanakya
Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, was an ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, economist and royal advisor. He authored the Arthashastra, a seminal treatise on statecraft, economics and military strategy.
He was instrumental in establishing the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta Maurya, and his pragmatic wisdom on leadership and human nature remains widely studied today.
From Chanakya's collections
Explore standout verses grouped by collection - each with its own about page and full quote list.
Arthashastra
On statecraft & strategy
Aphorisms on leadership, governance, economics and the long game of power.
Neeti Shastra
On conduct & character
Verses on ethics, friendship, family, education and the cultivation of character.
“Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions - Why am I doing it, What the results might be and Will I be successful. On…”
“Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions - Why am I doing it, What the results might be and Will I be successful. Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, go ahead.”
“A person should not be too honest. Straight trees are cut first and honest people are screwed first.”
“A person should not be too honest. Straight trees are cut first and honest people are screwed first.”
“Education is the best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats the beauty and the youth.”
“Education is the best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats the beauty and the youth.”
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