KAUTILYA’S ARTHASASTRA

Click the cover to enlarge

About the Book

Kautilya’s Arthasastra: The First Written Constitution of India unveils the extraordinary governance framework of ancient India — a meticulously structured system that mirrors the constitutional principles of modern states. The book deciphers the Arthasastra’s Preamble with 18 Clauses and its detailed framework comprising:

• The Sage-like Ruler (Swamy) and his ethical obligations
• A robust Administrative Service (Amatyas)
• The Council of Ministers (Mantriparishad) led by the Mahamatra
• Country and city administration through Samaharta, Nagarika, and fortified cities (Durga)
• The Revenue Department (Kosha) and Vigilance Network of secret agents
• The dual system of Justice (Dandamiti) under Dharmastha and Pradestre
• The Department of External Relations with structured diplomacy through envoys (duta-pranidhi)

This work reinterprets Kautilya’s text as a comprehensive constitutional document, offering profound insights into the origins of Indian jurisprudence, public administration, and governance philosophy.

Foreword by Prof. Upendra Baxi, Emeritus Professor of Law, Warwick and Delhi