War in Ancient India c9.s2.2

c9.s2.2

Another strategical consideration which engaged the general’s mind was the choice of a proper site for the operations of war. It is thus laid down in the Śivavyāsadhanurveda:²⁴ “That battle-field which is damp, hard, full of gravel and water and contains granite and shrubs ought not to be chosen. But one without inundations, but expansive, covered with a little dust or an uninhabited plain, is the best theatre of war.” In the battle of the Hydaspes, it is said that Porus fixed that “site where there was no clay but that the ground from its nature was all flat and firm, and suited for the movements of cavalry whether charging or falling back”, and that he drew up his army in order of battle, the elephants being posted in the front lines at intervals of not less than 100 feet and before the whole body of his infantry, so as to strike terror into Alexander’s soldiers. The infantry was arranged in two lines, one behind the other, and also on the wings beyond the elephants. On both sides of the infantry the cavalry were posted, with chariots in front. According to the *Agnipurāṇa*,²⁵ again, strategic warfare must be conducted in forests, on rivers and on rainy days, for attacks on open grounds are always difficult. In the battle-field the commander should aim at the strategical position of the army in its various divisions. It was then the time for him to show his mettle. Śukrācārya says²⁶ that both small and big guns are to be stationed in front, and behind them the foot-soldiers. The wings are to be occupied by elephants and chargers. With regard to the general arrangement of the army in the field, the *Agnipurāṇa*,²⁷ says that the various divisions should stand neither too close nor too far apart, so that the soldiers can exercise their weapons freely and without obstruction of any sort. In the forefront, the flower of the army are to be stationed, of course after keeping some as a reserve for an emergency. The most important portion that should not be neglected on any account, is the rear. Bold warriors armed with swords must occupy the front. Behind should stand the archers with bows and darts, then the horsemen, the charioteers and the elephant-men in order. Before the vanguard the leader of the army should stand holding firmly the flag-staff. The front is to be an extensive field so as to allow flanking movements without the least difficulty. This is evident from the fact that the war-wise leaders of Hindu India were accustomed to all kinds of strategical movements. As for the king himself, he was not to take an active part in the actual operations of the field. For if he should happen to fall, that would decide the battle instantaneously. Therefore he should continue to encourage the army only from the rear.