Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v2.c41.2

v2.c41.2

Different theories have suggested different dates for the Arthaśāstra ranging from the fourth century BC to the third century AD. (Kangle, 1986; Mukherjee, 1987) Most scholars however accept the traditional view that Kauṭilya, also known as Cāṇakya or Viṣṇugupta, who destroyed the power of the Nandas and placed Candragupta Maurya on the throne of the Magadha, is the author of this work. Candragupta came to the throne around 321 BC, and therefore it may be presumed that the work was undertaken and completed in the later half of the fourth century BC. Although clear statements are found to the above effect in the text (1.1.19 and 15.1.73), doubts have persisted.