A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.344

c5.344

CHĀNAKYA. A celebrated Brāhman, who took a leading part in the destruction of the Nandas, and in the elevation of Chandra-gupta to their throne. He was a great master of finesse and artifice, and has been called the Machiavelli of India. A work upon morals and polity called Chānakya Sūtra is ascribed to him. He is the chief character in the drama called Mudrā-rākshasa, and is known also by the names Vishnu-gupta and Kauṭilya. His maxims have been translated by Weber.