Teachings of Chanakya, the ancient Indian teacher, philosopher and political scientist has been contemporarised to deal with modern day problems and challenges.
"Chanakya in You," a new book follows the adventures of a modern-day kingmaker through a journey of a young boy who aims to become the world's richest person.
The man realises his dream by following "Arthashastra," the time-tested treatise by the grand old 4th century strategist who is also known as Kautilya.
The fiction is the first solo attempt by Radhakrishnan Pillai, who has previously authored bestsellers like "Corporate Chanakya and "Chanakya's 7 Secrets of Leadership" along with former DGP of Maharashtra D Sivanandan.
While his earlier body of work focused on how Chanakya's teachings can help modern day business and management professionals, the new book, says Pillai focuses on "living" the same by imbibing them into oneself.
It is a story of success, so much so, that to someone who hasn't read Pillai's previous books, it might seem a story of sheer luck. But he defies it through his frequent assertion that it is God's grace, dwelling on spirituality as a base of not just human life but also, material wealth. The fact that he spiritualises money rather than demonising it, is interesting and counters the old-fashioned question: Why should one run after money? All through, the Arthashastra remains his guide.
The book brings out the traditions of Gurukul and the Guru-Shishya relationship. The protagonist portrays the piety and discipline associated with them quite convincingly as he uses these methods to excel.
The book is an inspiring account of a aspiring businessman's constant efforts towards achieving wealth, success, relationships and spiritual fulfillment.
Such a journey might not look so easy and the author doesn't go deep into the wrongs if there were any. Instead, he explains how the study of Arthashastra and its application starting from a young age, helps him nail all he wants.
The book is written in a semi-autobiographical manner with Pillai giving an account of himself led by his grandfather, on a quest of wisdom following the principles of Arthashasra.
"Chanakya in You" has been published by Jaico.
