Local Government in Ancient India c6.s1.1

c6.s1.1

ONE of the characteristic features of ancient Hindu civilization is the marked development of associated life it exhibits. That development was achieved in varying degrees in the different spheres of life. We find it in those of religion, learning, politics, civics, and economics. In all these spheres organizations grew up on what may be regarded as a democratic or popular basis to fulfil the ends of national life. A proper presentation of Hindu culture in all its aspects and phases should take into account these diverse developments of the associated life, the many manifestations of the democratic principle which that culture represents. In the present work an attempt will be made to trace one particular line of that development, to dwell upon the workings of the democratic principle in one particular sphere.