Chanakya in Daily Life

by Radhakrishnan Pillai

And remember, no plan succeeds without perseverance. After you have set a daily timetable, follow it religiously.

Make note of any progress you make. The more you record your success, the more you will get motivated to continue your pursuit.

And so, it makes sense why the length of an English film is usually made of one-and-a-half hours long,

Look after your elders. Educate your children and prepare them to stand strong in the face of challenges.

Seek and you will find it.

The four purusharthas (aims of life) include dharma (philosophy), artha (aim/meaning), kama (desires) and moksha (freedom).

‘The longest route to success is a shortcut.’

‘Renounce one person for the sake of the family, a family for the sake of the village; the village for the sake of your country and even the [kingdom of] earth for one’s own sake.’

One should not use spiritual life as an escape from worldly duties.

Chanakya was a meticulous planner himself and believed in being over-prepared.

Many do not know how to set a goal. They lead monotonous, purposeless lives.

‘In the happiness of the subjects lies the benefit of the king and in what is beneficial to the subjects is his own benefit.’ (1.19.34)

But it’s also important to remind yourself that just being morally upright and honest is not enough. As a leader and good administrator, one has to make sure that one stays on the righteous path and at the same time brings in profits. This combination is what we should all aim for.