​Chanakya Niti: The four pillars of a good life based on Kautilya’s Arthashastra​

Chanakya, also called Kautilya and Vishnugupta, was the prime minister in the court of the first Mauryan King, Chandragupta Maurya, and Chanakya Niti is a set of aphorisms written by him (Chanakya). It is a collection of thoughts and sayings delivered by the ancient Indian philosopher and statesman, Chanakya, most of which provide useful advice on how to live a good and productive life even in today's times. It was composed between the fourth and third centuries BCE.
Please scroll down to discover the ageless wisdom of Chanakya and his four pillars that serve as a guide for life to many, even today

Dharma means living life with a code of ethics. Chanakya's writings are organized in his book Chanakya Niti, which provides eternal tips on how to live a good life and one with meaning, where the individual completes all his responsibilities, shows reverence to others and behaves truthfully. This pillar is a moral guide for conduct, leading individuals to make decisions that may profit only themselves but others in the long term. According to Chanakya, success is meaningless without dharma attained in life.

Spiritual values are as vital as it is recognizing the worldly necessity for wealth. Artha here refers to the quest for material prosperity through ethical means and not by double-crossing others. It comprises of economic security, family welfare resources, and the resources to give back to society. As per Kautilya, wealth aids dharma by way of providing the resources to maintain righteousness and do good for and to others.

Kama is all about our inherent desire to be happy and live a peaceful life. It reminds us that it is essential to experience happiness through love, creativity, or little things in life for our well-being. Chanakya thought that it was acceptable to pursue these passions, but with moderation. He suggested that we must live through what all life has to offer , but not in such a way that it interferes with our obligations. Maintaining this balance is what enables us to fully enjoy life without expecting anything in return. Do your karma, rest will follow along.

The impending and ultimate reality of life, as per Chanakya, is moksha, or the process of freeing oneself from the cycle of life and birth. This pillar of Chanakya focuses on spiritual development, inner wisdom, and peace. Moksha or salvation can be attained through wisdom, discipline, and relinquishing all worldly possessions or attachments. It is the highest degree of fulfillment after material possessions and other indulgences.