The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c9.s2.t1.69

c9.s2.t1.69

Ushered with pomp and ceremony into his office, the king lived in a grand style. His palace was expected to be a knot of paradise. In the Sabhā Parvan, at the request of Kṛṣṇa, Maya undertakes to build for the Pāṇḍus a palace like that of the celestials.² When finished, the mansion was all splendour and grandeur.³ Close to the royal residence was a court of justice, gambling hall, a music hall, an arena for wrestling and brute fights. A spacious area was set aside for markets at the capital. Parks were laid out for the people. Definite quarters were assigned to the common people. The “king’s city” should be laid out in six squares, the streets should be well-watered and well-lighted with lamps. Pains should be taken to make it as sanitary and beautiful as possible. A capital city in the Mahābhārata is defended by battlemented towers and seven moats.⁴