Arthashastra - The Rajarshi

The Rajarshi

Arthashastra deals in detail with the qualities and disciplines required for a Rajarshi – a wise and virtuous king.

"In the happiness of his subjects lies the king's happiness, in their welfare his welfare. He shall not consider as good only that which pleases him but treat as beneficial to him whatever pleases his subjects" – Kautilya.

According to Kautilya, a Rajarshi is one who:

• Has self-control, having conquered the inimical temptations of the senses;
• Cultivates the intellect by association with elders;
• Keeps his eyes open through spies;
• Is ever active in promoting the security and welfare of the people;
• Ensures the observance (by the people) of their dharma by authority & example;
• Improves his own discipline by (continuing his) learning in all branches of knowledge; and
• Endears himself to his people by enriching them and doing good to them.

Such a disciplined king should: –

• Keep away from another's wife;
• Not covet another's property;
• Practice ahinsa (non-violence towards all living things);
• Avoid day dreaming, capriciousness, falsehood and extravagance; and
• Avoid association with harmful persons and indulging in (harmful) activities.

Kautilya says that artha (Sound Economies) is the most important; dharma and kama are both dependent on it. A Rajarshi shall always respect those councillors and purohitas who warn him of the dangers of transgressing the limits of good conduct, reminding him sharply (as with a goad) of the times prescribed for various duties and caution him even when he errs in private.