Acharya Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, was behind the rise of the Maurya Empire as a master strategist, economist and brain. His teachings found in the Niti Niti remain timeless and incredibly relevant – in today’s corporate boardroom and leadership circle. While many read their work as ancient philosophy, real leaders apply as a guide to influence their mantras, strength and progress.
Are here 10 powerful Chanakya Mantra This draws a clear line between leaders and followers:
1. “Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions – why am I doing this, what the results can be, and will I be successful.”
Why it matters: leaders think strategically. They do not jump into action with closed eyes. Objectives, results, and viability guide their decisions – similar to followers, who can act on impulse or follow the crowd.
2. “A person should not be very honest. Trees are cut directly first and honest people are spoiled first.”
Why it matters: it’s not a call to be immoral, but a warning against blind idealism. Leaders know when to speak, when to remain silent, and how to protect themselves without compromising on values. On the other hand, followers, often match honesty with naivety.
3. “He who is highly associated with his family members experiences fear and sorrow, attachment to the root of all sorrow.”
Why it matters: leaders keep in mind emotions. They understand the cost of attachment – whether people, places, or rest. Leadership demands difficult choices, and the contingent enables clarity.
4.
Why it matters: leaders have to face fear. They work while others hesitate. Fear is a sign – not to freeze, but to fight. This boldness is one that separates them.
5. “A man is great by deeds, not by birth.”
Why it matters: true leaders earn respect. They do not rely on the title, positions or backgrounds. Followers wait for approval; Leaders constantly make their way through action.
6. “Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t stay for a long time to make them all.”
Why it matters: leaders inspect, analyze, and adapt. They learn from history, masters and even enemies. Followers repeat the pattern; Leaders break them.
7. “Education is the best friend. An educated person is honored everywhere.”
Why it matters: leaders never stop learning. Whether it is formal education or life experience, they give importance to development. The followers already know that.
8. “Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should show off to be poisonous.”
Why it matters: leadership is not only about capacity; This is about the perception. Presence, confidence and reputation case. The leaders noted – even in silence. The followers are waited to pay attention.
9. “The world’s greatest power is the youth and beauty of a woman.”
Why it matters: This controversial line, when read symbolically, is underestimated in places that ignore people. Leaders recognize strength in all their forms- skin, strategy, intuition and impact. Followers underestimate soft power.
10. “Test a servant with a relative in difficulty, a friend in difficulty and a wife in misfortune.”
Why it matters: leaders understand people through action, not words. They know when to trust and when to test. Decisions and discretion are the leadership currencies that distinguish the visionary from the naive.
Whether you are building a business, a team, or your individual empire, these teachings are your ancient compass yet.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)
