War in Ancient India c9.s1.t1.1

c9.s1.t1.1

The actual march of the enemy is regulated by short and long halts, well provided with commissariat, supplies and transport and communication facilities. There are two kinds of march. It may be a slow march when the invader feels that his offensive equipment is not strong enough to break up the enemy, or again when the enemy is making negotiations for peace. Otherwise he may make a quick or even a forced march.⁵ In the expeditions undertaken the element of time played a prominent part. The month of Mārgaśīrṣa (December) is generally recommended for long marches and Caitra (March-April) for short distances.⁶ But though this was the rule, there were exceptions. In case the conquering monarch found it advantageous to lead an expedition irrespective of the season, then he should do so.⁷ But it is the prescription of the Arthaśāstra, corroborated by the Kāmandakīya and the Agnipurāṇa, that during the hot season only asses, camels, and horses were to be used,⁸ in preference to elephants. The dewy season alone was fit for the use of elephants in marching. But a wise king is asked to avoid battle during the summer and rainy seasons.⁹