Research Paper

Chanakya Kautilya’s philosophy and its influence on current Indian

Foreign policy

Submitted to: Mam Nadia Awan

Submitted by: Hadia Saif

Registration no: 917-FSS/BSIR/F20

Batch: BSIR-B

Course: Defense and Strategic studies

Department: International Relations and Politics

International Islamic University Islamabad

2024
Table of Contents
Abstract .......................................................................................................................................... 2

Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 2

Methodology .............................................................................................................................. 4

Theoretical Framework ............................................................................................................ 5

Significance of Chanakya’s philosophy ................................................................................... 5

Kautilya's Methods in Foreign Policy ..................................................................................... 6

Samdhi ........................................................................................................................................ 7

Vigraha ....................................................................................................................................... 7

Asana .......................................................................................................................................... 8

Yana ............................................................................................................................................ 8

Samsraya .................................................................................................................................... 9

Dvaidhibhava ............................................................................................................................. 9

Methods of warfare ................................................................................................................. 10

Modi’s neighborhood first and Kautilya: a warm embrace ................................................ 10

Conclusion ................................................................................................................................ 13

Bibliography ................................................................................................................................ 14

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 Chanakya Kautilya’s philosophy and its influence on current Indian Foreign
policy

Abstract
Following the decolonization of the Indian subcontinent, India's conduct on the global stage has
undergone significant transformation, warranting scholarly investigation through the lens of
foreign policy analysis. India's adoption of a Non-aligned Movement during the Cold War, its self-
perception as a major power, and its pursuit of a permanent seat in the United Nations have all
piqued scholarly interest. These policies, seemingly influenced by the philosophy of Kautilya, have
prompted scholars to delve deeper into India's post-1947 discourse on foreign affairs. This paper
aims to explore the impact of Chanakya Kautilya's philosophy on India's current foreign policy.
Utilizing content analysis of the six foreign policy techniques outlined by Kautilya in his book
"Arthashastra" as the research methodology, this study seeks to shed light on the extent of
Kautilya's influence on India's contemporary foreign policy approach. The theoretical framework
of realism is deemed suitable for comprehending this research phenomenon, given its focus on
power dynamics and state interests. Prior research indicates a discernible influence of Kautilya's
philosophy on Indian foreign policy. Therefore, this paper endeavors to delve into Kautilya's
various philosophical tenets pertaining to foreign policy and their manifestation in India's current
foreign policy landscape. Through this exploration, the study aims to contribute to a deeper
understanding of the interplay between ancient philosophical traditions and contemporary
statecraft in India.

Keywords: Chanakya Kautilya, Arthashastr, foreign policy, philosophy, India

Introduction
Chanakya, also known as Kautilya and Vishnugupta, was a distinguished Indian philosopher and
strategic thinker whose teachings covered a wide range of subjects including political science,
economics, and foreign policy. He provided detailed insights into the qualities of rulers, state
administration, social principles, and religion. This earned him the title of Pandit Kautilya.
Chanakya played a crucial role in the downfall of the last ruler of the Nanda Dynasty and the
subsequent enthronement of Chandragupta Maurya, who established the Mauryan Empire, the first
major empire in ancient India. (Banerjee, 2011)

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Chanakya belonged to the Brahmin caste and is believed to have lived approximately between 350
and 275 B.C. Unfortunately, there is limited biographical information available about him, so
scholars often rely on traditional accounts and texts from Buddhist and Jain traditions from later
periods. The exact birthplace of Chanakya is a matter of debate. The Tika Mahavasma, a Buddhist
text, cites Taxila (Tashasila) as his birthplace, whereas Hemachandra, a Jain scholar, mentions in
his work "Abhidhanachintamani" that Chanakya, also known as Chanaka, hailed from the Dramila
region of South India. (Prabhu, 2019)

There is an alternate theory suggesting that Chanakya's name may have been derived from
his homeland, a place called Chanakya in Punjab. Various locations have been proposed as his
birthplace, but historical evidence leans towards Taxila (Takshsila) in Punjab. This conclusion is
supported by the fact that Alexander the Great's campaigns were primarily in Punjab, and Plutarch
records Alexander meeting Chandragupta during these campaigns. It's therefore plausible that
Taxila was where Chanakya, along with Chandragupta, spent significant time. Consequently,
Taxila is widely regarded as Chanakya's birthplace, providing clarity amidst debates over his
existence. Additionally, historians widely accept that Chanakya and Kautilya are one and the same
individual. (Subramanian, 1980)

As previously stated, Chandragupta was the ruler of the Mauryan Empire, also known as
the Indian Empire, and Chanakya served as his advisor. Chanakya played a crucial role in the
establishment of this empire, contributing significantly to its success through his ideas and
strategic acumen. His counsel and strategies proved instrumental in enabling the Mauryan Empire
to withstand and triumph over the formidable forces of Alexander the Great. (Modelski, 1964)

In V. K. Subramanian's book "Maxims of Kautilya," an intriguing anecdote recounts the

first meeting between Chanakya and Chandragupta Maurya. This encounter is depicted as the
starting point of their collaboration, marking a significant chapter in Indian history. Once, as
Chandragupta found himself expelled from the Nanda army, he encountered a Brahmin pouring
sugar syrup into the roots of kusa grass in the forest. Curious about this peculiar act, Chandragupta
inquired about the Brahmin's motives. The Brahmin, Chanakya, explained that the kusa grass had
pricked his leg, prompting him to destroy it by attracting ants with sugar syrup, thereby ensuring
the grass's demise. As Chanakya predicted, ants swiftly gathered around the roots, leading to the
grass's rapid destruction. Impressed by Chanakya's strategic prowess and his proactive approach

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to dealing with adversaries, Chandragupta bowed before him and sought his aid against the Nanda
regime. Chanakya accepted the request, and under his guidance and strategic acumen, the Mauryan
Empire thrived and expanded in power. (Rasik, 2015)

Kautilya, renowned as a royal advisor, educator, strategic visionary, and author, penned
the Arthashastra, a comprehensive text divided into fifteen sections covering diverse subjects such
as governance, legal systems, taxation, finances, foreign relations, and military strategies. This
study particularly delves into foreign policy, primarily drawing insights from chapters seven,
eleven, and twelve of the Arthashastra (Kumar, 2023). It investigates India's economic
assertiveness towards Pakistan through means like an arms race, trade barriers, and efforts to
impede infrastructure development and resource mobilization, resulting in detrimental effects on
Pakistan's economy. Additionally, the paper examines Kautilya's varied philosophies on foreign
affairs and their reflection in India's contemporary foreign policy practices.

This research paper will focus on finding the answers of What are the key principles of
foreign policy advocated by Chanakya in the Arthashastra? How does contemporary Indian foreign
policy reflect the principles of Chanakya's philosophy? What role does economic aggression play
in India's foreign policy towards neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan? How does India
strategically form alliances and seek protection in accordance with Chanakya's doctrines? How do
Chanakya's strategies of war, diplomacy, and neutrality manifest in India's dealings with regional
and global powers?

Methodology
The methodology for this research paper involves a combination of qualitative analysis and
literature review. Conducted an extensive review of scholarly works, historical texts, and policy
documents related to Kautilya's Arthashastra, Indian foreign policy, and the India-Pakistan
relationship. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical framework and
historical context. Utilized qualitative analysis techniques to examine the relevant chapters (seven,
eleven, and twelve) of the Arthashastra, focusing on Kautilya's principles and strategies concerning
foreign policy. Extracted key themes, principles, and strategies outlined in these chapters. Applied
a case study approach to analyze specific instances of India's economic assertiveness towards
Pakistan. This will involve examining historical events, policy decisions, and economic data to
assess the impact of India's actions on Pakistan's economy.Compare Kautilya's principles of

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foreign policy with contemporary Indian foreign policy practices. Identify similarities, differences,
and the extent to which Kautilya's principles are reflected in India's current approach to foreign
relations.

Theoretical Framework
Realism stands out as the prevailing theory in the field of global politics. Its primary premise
asserts that the state system operates within an anarchical framework, devoid of a centralized
authority for oversight and regulation. Consequently, states bear sole responsibility for ensuring
their security and survival. (Buzan, 1993). Within this paradigm, states are driven solely by their
own interests. This research demonstrates that Indian foreign policy operates on the principle of
self-interest, prioritizing its own concerns without significant regard for the interests of other
nations.

Significance of Chanakya’s philosophy

Chanakya earned the moniker of the "Indian Machiavelli," a comparison notably prevalent in the
20th century during India's independence. Jawaharlal Nehru, in his work "Discovery of India,"
acknowledges this comparison, noting its justifiability to some extent. The association stems from
the similarity between many of Kautilya's principles and the philosophy of realism. For instance,
Kautilya's advice to prioritize the preservation of one's soul above wealth or even familial ties
resonates with Machiavellian ideas of pragmatism and self-preservation. Nehru highlights
Kautilya's counsel: "One should save his money against hard times, and save his wife at the
sacrifice of his riches but invariably one should save his soul even at the sacrifice of his wife and
riches." (Anil, 2001)

The essence of the state resembles a soul, where safeguarding it necessitates prioritizing
everything else. This perspective underscores the centrality of the state, echoing the principles of
realism which assert its paramount importance. Similarly, Chanakya's assertion that "There is some
self-interest behind every friendship. There is no friendship without self-interests. This is a bitter
truth" aligns with the foundational tenets of realism, which emphasize the prevalence of self-
interest in interstate relations. While Machiavelli's "The Prince" delineates the qualities of rulers
and governing methods, Chanakya's "Arthashastra" serves a similar purpose, earning him the
comparison to Machiavelli as a kingmaker. Chanakya further posits that the righteousness or

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sinfulness of a ruler reflects onto the populace, illustrating the symbiotic relationship between
rulers and their subjects. (Liebig, 2017)

Chanakya's writings are replete with profound wisdom and intellectual insights.
Additionally, his strategic acumen has garnered attention from figures like Henry Kissinger, who
references the ancient Indian treatise, the Arthashastra. This work extensively outlines the power
dynamics inherent in politics, embodying a pragmatic understanding of political realities.
Kissinger regards the Arthashastra as possessing a nuanced perspective on politics, predating
Machiavelli's "The Prince" and encompassing elements reminiscent of both Machiavelli and
Clausewitz. The significance of such references lies in the recognition that Chanakya's philosophy
has not only been studied by Indian scholars but has also found resonance among Western writers.
(Sil, 1985)

This paper aims to delve into Chanakya's philosophy concerning foreign policy and its
contemporary application within India's current policy framework. During Chanakya's era,
particularly in the zenith of the Mauryan Empire's power, a geopolitical situation akin to that of
the Westphalian system emerged. This scenario featured numerous states surrounding the Mauryan
Empire. Chanakya conceptualized the term "rajamandala" to describe this configuration,
signifying a circle of states. According to this concept, hostile states bordering the ruler's state
form an inner circle, while the surrounding states constitute an outer circle. These outer circle
states can be seen as natural allies of the ruler's state against the hostile inner circle states. This
strategic principle, succinctly summarized as "the enemy of my enemy is my friend," echoes in
India's contemporary foreign policy (Bhattacharya, 2014) . In today's context, India views nations
like Japan and Afghanistan as natural allies in countering common adversaries such as China and
Pakistan.

Kautilya's Methods in Foreign Policy

The primary analytical segment of the paper commences here, focusing on Kautilya's six fold
approach to foreign policy, methods of warfare, and their application within contemporary Indian
foreign policy. Chanakya outlined six strategies for foreign policy formulation in the
"Arthashastra," which will be individually examined in the paper:

Samdhi: Diplomacy and peacemaking

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Vigraha: Engagement in warfare

Asana: Passive stance or inaction

Yana: Preparation for war

Samsraya: Seeking alliances or protection

Dvaidhibhave: Pursuing a dual policy approach

Additionally, three methods of warfare are outlined:

Declared war

Covert or clandestine warfare

Undeclared or ambiguous warfare

Samdhi
Samdhi, or the act of making peace, according to Chanakya, involves a state entering into an
agreement with specific conditions for a limited duration. This approach is typically employed
when a state finds itself in a position of relative decline compared to its adversaries. For instance,
various states entered into alliances with Napoleon following their defeats, though these alliances
dissolved after the Battle of Waterloo. Kautilya asserts that a king will only seek peace when faced
with a relative decline compared to their enemy (Kadek, 2020). India, for example, applied this
method after its defeat by China in 1962, recognizing its inability to overcome China and thus
opting for a peace agreement. Additionally, India pursued a strategy of fostering good relations
with Japan, a competitor of China. This approach signifies a temporary peace with China while
maintaining alliances with its rivals, reflecting Kautilya's six-fold policy. India's continued
adherence to Kautilya's principles demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding its interests and
countering its adversaries

Vigraha
Vigraha, or the act of waging war, occurs when a state possesses superior power capabilities
compared to its adversary and can achieve victory through military strength, strategic tactics, or
exploiting internal conditions within the enemy's country. Kautilya asserts that when a king holds
a position of strength relative to his enemy, he should initiate attacks and engage in warfare. The

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king must carefully assess both the internal and external conditions of the enemy state and act
when it becomes apparent that victory can be easily attained (pandey, 2023). India's foreign policy
has demonstrated this approach through various attempts to engage in warfare against Pakistan,
leveraging its considerable military strength and capabilities. In recent decades, tensions between
India and Pakistan have escalated to the brink of war, notably during the Brass Tacks crisis in
2011. India conducted large-scale military maneuvers under the Brass Tacks exercise, escalating
tensions along the border. However, international intervention prevented the situation from
escalating into a full-blown conflict, with nuclear deterrence playing a significant role. The
terrorist attack on the Indian parliament in 2001 further heightened tensions, leading to India
deploying a significant military presence along its western border. Despite the heightened military
posture, the threat of nuclear escalation ultimately prevented the outbreak of war.

Asana
Asana, often referred to as neutrality or the act of doing nothing, is a strategy employed when
neither war nor peacemaking offers any advantage. In such circumstances, a state may opt for
isolation or pursue a peace agreement. According to Kautilya, if a king perceives that neither he
nor his enemy possesses the capability to harm or disrupt the other's endeavors, he may choose to
refrain from taking action. This stance may entail a prolonged period of waiting until
circumstances favor a more decisive course of action (Singh, 2022). For instance, in recent
decades, during conflicts between Pakistan and India such as the 1987 Brass Tacks crisis and the
2001 Mumbai attacks, India recognized the futility of engaging in hostilities due to the presence
of nuclear deterrence. Consequently, India opted to refrain from action. Similarly, Jawaharlal
Nehru's introduction of the non-alignment policy can be viewed as influenced by Kautilya's
philosophy. Nehru emphasized that India would not align with any major power, recognizing the
equilibrium of benefits and drawbacks in such a stance and opting for inaction.

Yana
Yana, which refers to preparing for war or mobilization, involves enhancing a country's military
capabilities and leveraging all available resources to gain an advantage over the enemy. Failure to
adequately prepare for war can leave a nation vulnerable to enemy attacks and eventual
destruction. Kautilya emphasizes the importance of a king increasing his power and gaining a
strategic advantage over his adversaries. By bolstering its power, a state instills fear in its enemies,

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deterring them from launching an attack (Sahni, 2021). India's current military posture exemplifies
this approach, reflecting adherence to Kautilya's principles. Presently, India is expected to increase
its defense spending as part of its modernization efforts. Currently, India allocates approximately
$46 billion to its military budget, with ambitions to become the fourth-largest military spender by
2020. India is also the largest importer of military equipment and possesses ballistic missiles
capable of reaching targets throughout Pakistan and much of China. While historical conflicts have
arisen between China and India, this strategy is primarily directed towards Pakistan due to the
prevailing tensions between the two nations.

Samsraya
Samsraya, which denotes protection or forming alliances, stands in contrast to the strategy of
preparing for war. This approach underscores the importance of aligning with the most powerful
states within the circle of nations to ensure one's own security. According to Chanakya, a king
seeking an alliance should prioritize finding a ruler more powerful than the neighboring adversary
(Sarkar, 2000). India actively pursues this strategy by forging alliances with major global powers
to safeguard its security interests. Through such alliances, India seeks protection from powerful
states as well as neighboring countries. In the past, India has formed alliances with nations like the
United States, Russia, France, Israel, and Japan. These alliances extend beyond mere symbolic
agreements, encompassing arms trade, nuclear cooperation, and space programs. The underlying
aim is to bolster India's security while undermining Pakistan's national security interests in the
region.

Dvaidhibhava
Dvaidhibhava, also known as the dual policy, is a strategy employed to engage with multiple states
simultaneously, forming alliances with some while confronting others. It involves making peace
with one state while engaging in conflict with another. As Kautilya succinctly puts it, "the enemy
of my enemy is my friend" (Surpi, 2018). Following a significant defeat against China, India halted
hostilities and sought peace with China while simultaneously fostering good relations with Japan,
a key rival of China. Chanakya's wisdom reflects the complexities of such situations, highlighting
the myriad challenges faced by individuals or nations. The survival of an enemy in battle becomes
a source of anguish for Indians, fueling a desire for revenge and efforts to undermine the adversary,
as depicted by the metaphorical "fire of revenge". India's adoption of this policy is further

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exemplified by its engagement with Afghanistan, a historical rival of Pakistan. By establishing
peaceful relations with Afghanistan, India seeks to exploit the resulting tensions within Pakistan,
thereby advancing its strategic interests.

Methods of warfare
Kautilya also delineated various methods of warfare, and it is noteworthy that India has largely
adhered to these principles of war. Firstly, there is "Open War," which entails a declared conflict
with overt attacks. India openly engaged in warfare with Pakistan in 1965 and subsequently (Jin,
2023). The second method is "Secret War," involving sudden and covert attacks aimed at instilling
fear and launching assaults from unexpected directions (Saad, 2003). India, through its
engagement with Afghanistan, has created instability in Pakistan's FATA, Baluchistan, and other
tribal regions, while simultaneously maintaining pressure along the eastern border, effectively
encircling Pakistan. The third method is "Undeclared War," conducted through covert agencies,
intelligence services, religious groups, and even through the involvement of women (Sarangi,
2001). India's interventions in Baluchistan (Pakistan), support for Hindu Tamils in Sri Lanka,
backing of Maoist separatists in Nepal, and aiding Shanti Bahini in Bangladesh reflect the
application of Chanakya's principles, which India has adopted. This policy, often termed the
aggressive expansionist concept, is rooted in the teachings of Chanakya.

Modi’s neighborhood first and Kautilya: a warm embrace

Modi's rise to power instilled a newfound sense of confidence in India. He adopted a pragmatic
foreign policy, reminiscent of the Arthashastra, dedicating significant attention to international
relations, unlike his predecessors. His efforts aimed at advancing India's economic and strategic
interests, both with major powers and smaller nations, aimed to elevate India from a mere balancer
to a leading global player. Even during his 2014 election campaign, Modi drew inspiration from
Kautilya's teachings, emphasizing his vision to elevate India's status to that of a great power, akin
to the ideal leader described in Kautilya's works. (Pant, 2019)

His admiration for Kautilya was evident when he inaugurated the 'Sardar Patel National
Unity Day,' equating Patel with Kautilya, highlighting their shared vision of unifying smaller
entities into a strong, cohesive setup. Modi's 'Neighborhood First' policy underscored South Asia's
importance, recognizing that India's regional relationships are pivotal for its aspirations of
becoming a significant Asian and global power. This approach echoes Kautilya's Mandala theory,

10
where India occupies a central position, surrounded by concentric circles of influence, with the
immediate neighborhood being the most crucial. (Misra, 2016)

By inviting South Asian leaders to his swearing-in ceremony, Modi seemingly

implemented a strategy akin to the 'circle of kings' advocated by Kautilya, fostering closer ties
with neighboring nations. Moreover, Modi and his Foreign Minister, Sushma Swaraj, prioritized
South Asia for their initial diplomatic engagements, signaling a shift from ideological rhetoric to
tangible actions aimed at strengthening regional cooperation. (Chaturvedy, 2014)

Modi's diplomatic efforts in the neighborhood were marked by significant milestones.

Bhutan was his first stop, where he pledged support for hydroelectric projects. Next, he visited
Nepal, breaking a two-decade-long hiatus in Indian prime ministerial visits. His visit to Bangladesh
resulted in a historic agreement resolving a longstanding territorial dispute, amplifying India's
strategic influence in the region. (Kaura, 2018)

For India's sub-regional initiatives like BIMSTEC and BBIN, Bangladesh emerged as a
crucial partner, facilitating regional integration. Sri Lanka, which had leaned towards China under
the Rajapaksa government, became a focus of Modi's 'neighborhood first' policy. With the election
of President Maithripala Sirisena, India sought to strengthen ties, culminating in Modi's landmark
visit—the first by an Indian prime minister in nearly three decades. Modi's engagements included
addressing the Sri Lankan parliament and visiting the northern province of Jaffna. (Pal, 2016)

During his subsequent visits, Modi engaged with the Tamil community and inaugurated
projects, including a specialty hospital constructed with Indian assistance. India also invested in
Sri Lanka's Mattala airport, indicating strategic interests in the face of China's expanding presence
in the region. These initiatives underscored India's commitment to fostering closer ties with its
neighbors and maintaining regional stability. (Vaid, 2021)

Modi's tenure as Prime Minister saw bold attempts to reshape India's relationship with
Pakistan. His surprise visit to Pakistan in 2015, marked by informal diplomacy and gestures like
exchanging gifts, offered hope for improved ties. However, terrorist attacks, including the
Pathankot and Uri incidents, derailed peace efforts, prompting India to suspend talks and retaliate
with surgical strikes across the Line of Control. (Rajendram, 2014)

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In response to Pakistan's obstructionism, Modi pursued a strategy of engagement with other South
Asian nations, excluding Pakistan. Initiatives like 'SAARC minus one' and the BBIN trade bloc
aimed to promote regional cooperation while bypassing Pakistan's reluctance. The BBIN pact, akin
to China's OBOR initiative, underscored India's proactive regional approach. (Srinivasan, 2014)

Modi's foreign policy extended beyond South Asia, embracing nations like Afghanistan,
Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. India's engagement in Afghanistan, marked by significant
developmental assistance and diplomatic outreach, reflects a pragmatic application of Kautilyan
principles. Despite challenges, India's strategic interests in Afghanistan led to overtures towards
the Taliban, signaling a shift towards pragmatic diplomacy in the face of evolving regional
dynamics. (Chansoria M. (., 2018)

According to experts, India's engagement with the Taliban represents a strategic necessity
to safeguard its interests amidst the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. This pragmatic
approach reflects India's commitment to preserving its security interests and avoiding the
dominance of regional rivals like Pakistan and China. (Pande, 2017)

Modi's foreign policy pivot from the Look East policy to the more proactive 'Act East'
mantra in 2014 signaled India's intention to play a more assertive role in East and Southeast Asia.
This shift from passive observation to active engagement reflects India's growing confidence and
desire to counterbalance China's expanding influence in the region. (Chaulia, 2016)

Viewing India as the Kautilyan Vijigishu, or the one desiring victory, Modi pursued a strategy of
closer economic and defense ties with nations like Vietnam, Japan, Australia, and others in East
Asia. This reverse string of pearls approach aimed to contain China's global ambitions by
bolstering partnerships with its regional rivals. (Chansoria M. , 2019)

The strengthening of India-ASEAN relations under Modi's leadership was exemplified by

the unprecedented presence of 10 ASEAN leaders at India's Republic Day celebrations in 2018.
Additionally, the formation of the Mod Quad, comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia,
embodies the Arthasastran concept of a circle of states, aimed at shaping the Indo-Pacific region
and curtailing China's influence. (Rajagopalan, 2018)

In the aftermath of the deadly Galwan clashes with China, Modi demonstrated a pragmatic
approach, following Kautilyan advice by avoiding escalation and seeking peace. This approach

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extended to India's outreach to Pakistan, aimed at diverting attention and energy away from the
more significant challenge posed by China. (Kugelman, 2020)

Modi's diplomatic maneuvers vis-a-vis Pakistan and China reflect a revival of Kautilyan
diplomacy, characterized by pragmatism, strategic calculation, and a keen understanding of power
dynamics in the region. Through these actions, Modi has sought to rejuvenate India's strategic
posture and assert its interests on the global stage.

Conclusion
These are just a few of the policies outlined in Chanakya's extensive body of work. In addition to
foreign policy, Chanakya also delved into matters of administration, law and order, and economics.
This paper has focused on examining those policies specifically related to the state's foreign affairs.
Even in modern times, India continues to regard Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, as a significant
role model. While many brilliant philosophers have come and gone over the centuries, India still
reveres Chanakya for his enduring wisdom and guidance.

The question arises: why does India continue to draw inspiration from Chanakya? The
answer lies in India's deep-rooted respect for its historical figures and philosophical traditions.
When India gained independence from British rule, it looked back to its forefathers and dedicated
its newfound freedom to them. In contrast to Pakistan, India immediately embraced its indigenous
philosophies and teachings, with Chanakya's principles holding particular sway. Indians have long
been enamored with Chanakya's philosophy. Over time, India has integrated Chanakya's teachings
into both its domestic and international policies, adapting them to suit contemporary
circumstances. Chanakya's influence extends beyond India's borders; his ideas have captivated
Western scholars as well. Henry Kissinger, the former Secretary of State under President
Roosevelt, drew parallels between Kautilya, Machiavelli, and Clausewitz in his book "World
Order." Kissinger highlighted the relevance of Chanakya's theories from the Arthashastra to
contemporary concepts such as international system theory, realism, and classical realism.

India's adherence to Chanakya's principles has piqued the interest of Western observers,
prompting them to delve deeper into India's philosophical foundations. As they discovered
Chanakya's teachings, they began to explore and analyze them, uncovering new insights. The
Arthashastra and its various translations into English have become subjects of study for Indian and

13
Western scholars alike. Indian writers have also produced works that emulate Chanakya's studies
in English. Critics may question why India persists in adopting policies based on realism.
However, every state has the prerogative to pursue policies that serve its best interests. It is
incumbent upon other regional countries to develop astute foreign policies to effectively engage
with India on the global stage.

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