Question

'Arthshastra' was written by:

• A. Mahatma Gandhi
• B. Megasthenes
• C. Vishnugupta
• D. Chandragupta

Hint:

Many historical figures are known by multiple names. For the exam, remember that Kautilya = Chanakya = Vishnugupta. This is a frequently asked question.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the author of the 'Arthashastra', an ancient Indian Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The 'Arthashastra' is traditionally attributed to Kautilya, who was the chief advisor and prime minister to the first Mauryan Emperor, Chandragupta.
Kautilya is also known by two other names: Chanakya and Vishnugupta. Therefore, Vishnugupta is the correct author.
Let's examine the other options:


Mahatma Gandhi: A modern-era leader of India's independence movement. He wrote books like 'The Story of My Experiments with Truth'.

Megasthenes: A Greek historian who wrote 'Indica', an account of India during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya.

Chandragupta: The founder of the Mauryan Empire, who was guided by Kautilya (Vishnugupta). He was a king, not the author of this treatise.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Since Vishnugupta is another name for Kautilya, the author of the 'Arthashastra', option (C) is correct.