Hindu Administrative Institutions c11.s9.7

c11.s9.7

Kāmandaka, the disciple of Kauṭalya, gives a categorical list of the qualifications of a commander-in-chief. He should be one of a noble family, native of the land, versed in the rules of council, in the art and laws of war, possessing energy, heroism, valour and other higher qualities, one who has a number of kith and kin besides friends, who is actuated by generosity, amiableness and large-heartedness, who is a friend of all, who evokes respect by his character and learning, who is healthy, enduring, self-confident and has a commanding personality, who is expert in the use of four-fold forces, and is familar with the movement of informants and reconnoiterers, who is skilful and competent to manage the whole force, who can read the minds of others including those of animals, who knows the routes which he is to march through, who is not dismayed by the lack of food, or drink, or by inclement weather, who can sow dissensions among the enemy's army, who is capable of protecting his camp and is equal to the occasion, and who takes to work regardless of consequences but with full hopes of fruition of his labours.¹