Aspects of Ancient Indian Polity

Contrary to the views of some Western Indologists, it is now proved beyond all doubts that in ancient India there was intensive study of the practical aspect of Government and of relations between states and those topics were subjected to minute analysis by writers on politics. During the days of the awakening of political aspirations in India, in the early years of this century, a keen interest in the history of Indian theories of polity was aroused. The discovery of the Arthasastra greatly added to this interest and scholarly researches were enthusiastically conducted in the subject. The learned author of the present work has made a valuable addition to the existing research work on Indian policy. His treatment of the subject is both authentic and exhaustive. It covers the whole field. He has based his work has made a valuable addition to the existing research work on Indian policy. His treatment of the subject is both authentic and exhaustive. It covers the whole field. He has based his work on ancient texts like the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, the Arthasastra of Kautilya, epigraphic records and material culled from other branches of Sanskrit literature. The author has discussed various types of states in ancient India, the origin of kingship, rules of succession among the heirs of a deceased king, the duties and daily routine of a king, evolution of the principal state-officials, the religious aspects of ancient Indian polity, etc. with a deep insight into the subject. The author has occasions to express views in opposition to those of several scholars both Eastern and Western but he has always given full grounds in support of his views. The clearness with which he has set out his views, the care with which he has collected the relevant evidence, and the moderation of his criticism render his work a contribution of substantial importance and lasting value.