The great Indian diplomat and his ways of diplomacy
The brilliance of Chanakya Niti lies in its sharp observations and realistic approach to life. Chanakya does not idealize the world; instead, he urges people to understand human nature, recognize deceit, protect their interests, and act with discretion. His teachings often blend practicality with moral clarity, making them suitable for both personal and professional growth.
Shah has earned the enviable epithet of being named the new-age Chanakya, after the prolific scholar, statesman, strategist, philosopher, economist and advisor to the Mauryan Empire in 4th Century B.C., who has, till date, remained an enigmatically inspirational character.
There may be lessons to learn from these improvements, and not just for India. First, sustained and respectful leader-level diplomacy can open opportunities for cooperation.
For someone acclaimed as Bharatiya Janta Party’s ‘Chanakya’, who drove the party to a historic landslide victory in the 2019 Parliament elections, getting the crucial assignment to head the Home Ministry was supposed to be the next big challenge.
Interestingly, all these years, we dismissed the Sangh Parivar as speaking abstract, ritualistic, anachronistic mumbo jumbo. But, over the decades, when the Congress gave up its cultural thinking, the Sangh with great perseverance built up signs and symbols, Sanskritised whole populations and appropriated ideological opposites.
It will be seen that this Hindu theory of government was based on a belief in the innate depravity of man. If there is no strong authority to keep men under control, the stronger would destroy the weaker, just as the big fish destroy the small fish in the sea. Government, rulers and laws become necessary to prevent this “Matsya Nyaya” operating in human society.
These four Upayasa form the basis of the six forms of foreign policy. Apart from these six methods of diplomacy, Kautilya describes 3 more methods of diplomacy.
These six policies are very important to implement the Mandala Theory in practice and adaptable to the circumstances arising out of the dynamics of political situations.
We shall primarily focus on Kautilya’s thoughts on political management and diplomacy which are indeed the logical approach for an effective, efficient leadership.
The Mandala concept is one in which there are circles of friends and foes with the central point being the Principle King and his State.
This is a well thought out strategy to consolidate power for the Kingdom who employs this concept.
Mandala in Sanskrit means ‘Circle’. The concept is also known as ‘RAJAMANDALA’ meaning, ‘CIRCLE OF KINGS’.
