Political Science · Indian Political Thought
UGC NET June 2019 Political Science
How many constituents of the Mandala (Circle) Theory of State are enumerated by Kautilya?
A60
B68
C70
D72 ✓ Correct
Correct answer: (D) 72 — Kautilya's Mandala theory enumerates 72 elements (prakritis) of statecraft.
Explanation
★Kautilya's Mandala theory enumerates 72 elements (prakritis) of statecraft.
★The Mandala or circle theory is his model of geo-strategy, mapping the relations between a king and his neighbours.
★Its core maxim is that the immediate neighbour is a natural enemy while the neighbour's neighbour is a natural friend.
★Kautilya identifies four principal states: the Vijigishu (would-be conqueror), the Ari (enemy), the Madhyama (middle king) and the Udasina (neutral).
★The full circle is reckoned as twelve kings, each with allies, and counting their constituents yields 60 material elements.
★Adding the twelve kings to these sixty gives the figure of 72 elements of the Raja-Mandala.
★The theory rests on the principle of balance of power, requiring the king to calculate friends and foes before war.
★Kautilya distinguished allies into Sahaja, the inherited friend, and Kritrima, the acquired friend, holding the inherited ally superior.
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