This talk is centred around Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, who was an ancient Indian philosopher, economist, and statesman. He was a key figure in the establishment of the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta Maurya. Renowned for his political acumen, he authored the Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft, economics, and military strategy. Harivansh Narayan Singh talks about the Prof. Roger Boesche’s book on Chanakya and his being considered as a political realist by the western intellectuals as well. He is credited with shaping the foundations of classical economics and his ideas continue to influence modern political thought. Author Ravi Singh Choudhary has in his book talked about the aspects of Arth and Dharma from the viewpoint of Chanakya. This book unveils the complexities of foreign affairs, focusing on ‘Saam’ as a conflict resolution tool. It delves purely in political science and leadership lessons for kings or rulers. Chanakya’s profound understanding of Shatru-Bodha provides timeless wisdom relevant to geopolitics and geo-economics. It serves as a detox treatment from ancient Bharat for policymakers and governance formulators. Ravi Singh’s insightful elaboration counters the trend of diluting ancient wisdom for Western ideals among reform activists.

About The Speakers:
Harivansh Narayan Singh, is a journalist and politician, currently serving as the Deputy Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. His journalistic career commenced with The Times of India, and he later became an additional media advisor to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. He also revitalized the Hindi publication Prabhat Khabar. He later entered politics, affiliated with the Janata Dal (United) party. Singh is renowned for his eloquent speeches, advocacy for social justice, and active engagement in parliamentary discussions on various issues.

Ravi Singh Choudhary currently serves as the Director of the Sampoorn Krishi Utthan Foundation, an agricultural enterprise focused on promoting organic/natural farming and a Consultant at Unnmukt Urja, an organization specializing in biomass energy solutions. With a background in mechanical engineering, Ravi has dedicated his entire life to exploring Indian philosophy, knowledge systems, and sciences. Ravi Singh Choudhary is also an accomplished author, having written books like Rishi Intelligence, Krishi Sanhita and Gau Sanhita.