Chanakya, the brilliant strategist, economist, and philosopher of ancient India, is often called the father of Indian politics and economics. His wisdom, found in the Arthashastra and Chanakya Neeti, continues to guide leaders, entrepreneurs, and thinkers even today. His words carry deep insights on power, success, diplomacy, and human nature—timeless lessons that remain relevant in every era.
In this post, we explore 15 of the most impactful quotes by Chanakya, offering wisdom that can shape both personal and professional success.
Here are some famous sayings by Chanakya
1) “Learn from the mistakes of others… you can’t live long enough to make them all yourselves!!”
2)”A person should not be too honest. Straight trees are cut first and Honest people are screwed first.”
3)”Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should pretend to be venomous.”
4)”There is some self-interest behind every friendship. There is no friendship without self-interests. This is a bitter truth.”
5)” 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.”
6)”As soon as the fear approaches near, attack and destroy it.”
7)”The world’s biggest power is the youth and beauty of a woman.”
8)”Once you start a working on something, don’t be afraid of failure and don’t abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest.”
9)”The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind. But the goodness of a person spreads in all direction.”
10)”God is not present in idols. Your feelings are your god. The soul is your temple.”
11) “A man is great by deeds, not by birth.”
12) “Never make friends with people who are above or below you in status. Such friendships will never give you any happiness.”
13) “Treat your kid like a darling for the first five years. For the next five years, scold them. By the time they turn sixteen, treat them like a friend. Your grown up children are your best friends.”
14) “Books are as useful to a stupid person as a mirror is useful to a blind person.”
15) “Education is the best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats the beauty and the youth.”
FAQs about Chanakya
1. Who was Chanakya?
Chanakya was an ancient Indian scholar, economist, and political strategist who played a key role in the establishment of the Maurya Empire. He served as the chief advisor to Chandragupta Maurya.
2. When and where was Chanakya born?
Chanakya is believed to have been born around 375 BCE in Taxila (present-day Pakistan) or Pataliputra (modern Patna, India), though exact records are unclear.
3. What is Chanakya famous for?
He is best known for writing the Arthashastra, an ancient treatise on economics, politics, and governance. He is also credited with helping Chandragupta Maurya overthrow the Nanda dynasty and establishing a powerful empire.
4. What is Chanakya Neeti?
Chanakya Neeti is a collection of his teachings and moral principles on leadership, diplomacy, success, and human behavior, offering practical wisdom that remains relevant today.
5. What were Chanakya’s major contributions to India?
He laid the foundation for efficient governance, economic policies, and military strategy in ancient India. His ideas on statecraft, taxation, and administration are still studied in political science and economics.
6. Did Chanakya really exist, or is he a myth?
Yes, historical records confirm that Chanakya was a real figure who lived during the 4th century BCE. His role in shaping Indian history is well-documented in ancient texts like the Arthashastra and Mudrarakshasa.
7. What was Chanakya’s view on money and wealth?
Chanakya believed that wealth is essential for power and progress, but it should be used wisely for the welfare of society. He advocated for strong financial planning and resource management.
8. How did Chanakya help Chandragupta Maurya?
Chanakya trained and mentored Chandragupta Maurya, helping him overthrow the Nanda dynasty and establish the Maurya Empire, one of the most powerful empires in Indian history.
9. What lessons can we learn from Chanakya today?
His teachings on strategic thinking, leadership, diplomacy, and financial management are timeless and applicable in modern business, politics, and personal success.
10. How did Chanakya die?
There are multiple theories about Chanakya’s death. Some sources say he retired and fasted to death, while others suggest he was killed due to palace conspiracies. The exact details remain unclear.
Hi there! I’m Sethu, your go-to guy for all things tech, travel, internet, movies, and business tips. I love sharing insights and stories that make life more interesting. Let’s explore the world together, one article at a time!
Very sad to see No. 12…How a person wont learn from people who are above or below our status. In my view we learn a lot from them.
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i agree with true but i also like this one
The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind. But the goodness of a person spreads in all direction.
chankya was a great person like birbal
i like this one most
“Books are as useful to a stupid person as a mirror is useful to a blind person.”