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Mauryan Administration & Literature

Another name of Chanakya | Vishnugupta and Kautilya

Chanakya was also known as Vishnugupta (his personal name) and Kautilya (his gotra or title), particularly as the author of the Arthashastra.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 12 - Themes in Indian History Part I

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Another name of Chanakya was:

[UPSC CSE Prelims 1993, Paper I]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Historical figures in ancient India often bore multiple names representing their clan (Gotra), personal name, or professional title.

Authentic Source Evidence


Traditional accounts and the text of the 'Arthashastra' identify the author as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. Chanakya is likely a patronymic (son of Chanaka).

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Vishnugupta is widely accepted by historians as the personal name of the strategist Chanakya.

  • Logic 2: Vishakhdatta was the author of the play 'Mudrarakshasa', which features Chanakya as a character.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "How did the name 'Kautilya' originate?"

    It is thought to be derived from 'Kutila' (crooked or shrewd), reflecting his pragmatic and complex political strategies.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Chanakya's multifaceted names mirror his roles as a teacher (Acharya), a political architect, and a scholar of statecraft."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Arthashastra 13Chandragupta Maurya 2Nanda Dynasty 5

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