Chanakya, an ancient Indian philosopher, economist, and statesman, is revered for his profound contributions to political theory and governance. As the chief advisor to Emperor Chandragupta Maurya, he authored the "Arthashastra," a seminal treatise on statecraft, diplomacy, and military strategy that remains relevant to this day.
"Never make friends with people who are above or below you in status. Such friendships will never give you any happiness."
"There is no austerity equal to a balanced mind, and there is no happiness equal to contentment; there is no disease like covetousness, and no virtue like mercy."
"A man is born alone and dies alone; and he experiences the good and bad consequences of his karma alone; and he goes alone to hell or the Supreme abode."
"There is some self-interest behind every friendship. There is no friendship without self-interests. This is a bitter truth."
"Education is the best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats the beauty and the youth."
"One whose knowledge is confined to books and whose wealth is in the possession of others, can use neither his knowledge nor wealth when the need for them arises."
"Treat your kid like a darling for the first five years. For the next five years, scold them. By the time they turn sixteen, treat them like a friend. Your grown up children are your best friends."
"Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions - Why am I doing it, What the results might be and Will I be successful. Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, go ahead."