War in Ancient India c5.s2.102

c5.s2.102

Usually the defeated king was reinstated on the throne. But if the enemy king had met with his death in battle, his son or nearest relative was installed on the throne on terms of subordinate alliance.101 The subjects of the vanquished monarch were allowed to retain their own laws and customs,102 for it was well realised that any violation of these would result in a mass rebellion which it would be impossible to quell. The chief leaders of the people were, it is said, to be conciliated with soothing words and alluring presents.103 It was the policy of the ancient Hindus that once in the field of action, the enemy could be subjected to rigor. But after the cessation of hostilities, the victor should behave in such a way as to secure the advancement of all, including the subjects of the enemy’s kingdom.104