Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c8.58

c8.58

It was the same threefold motive that led Kautalya to inculcate the control of gambling. The Superintendent should appoint definite places, supply water and other conveniences, of course for a consideration, and hire out dice and what is called kākanī. To play anywhere else meant a fine of twelve paṇas. If any players dexterously substituted other dice, they had to pay a similar fine. Fairness was to be rigorously enforced. A foul player not only forfeited his winnings, if any, and received the first amercement, but was also treated as a thief. The superintendent, on behalf of the state, appropriated five per cent of all winnings. Little could have been left in the end to the players but the excitement that comes from “the hot fever of hope and fear." The same rules applied to all betting and challenging, except in learning and art. While play was in progress, the Superintendent should exert all his psychological skill in detecting any spies or thieves.¹