State and Government in Ancient India c12.10

c12.10

Early Indian speculations and the known evolution of the Hindu family, therefore, show that kingship arose out of the patriarchal atmosphere prevailing in society. A *kulapati* who was prominent for his bravery and leadership² would become a *viśpati*. The usual tendency, however, was to assume these qualities in the leading member of the seniormost family; an actual election would arise only in a doubtful case, where it was not clear as to who was the proper claimant.