It refers to the laws or rules set for the rulers in the context of ensuring proper administration of the entire kingdom. The concept of Rajadharma was introduced by one of the greatest epics of India, the Mahabharata. Only the sages had the power to interpret this dharma or the Sacred Law. As per the ancient Indian thought, it is dharma that sustains the universe and both the king as well as the people must adhere to it. It also refers to a code of moral principles relating to the daily lives and following these rules ensures peace, prosperity and happiness.ĭharma is one of the values of an individual. It is stated that one who adopts Dharma would derive money, happiness and success. Firstly, it means religious convictions and secondly, a set of duties or a code of conduct. Broadly speaking, the term has two connotations. This is a Sanskrit term, which means law and can be understood in various ways. Through Dandaneethi, it becomes easier to bring about proper progress and balanced system of social and economic needs. Excessive use would distress the people and light usage of the same will lose its importance. It indicates the rules that one needs to adhere to while punishing others.Īncient political thinkers suggested that for the sanctity of the concept, Danda should be used carefully. This ancient Indian concept deals with the totality of social, political and economic relationships and indicates how they have to be properly organized and integrated with one another. Even the people can collectively take an action against the king if he commits any wrong. This code should bind Danda against his subjects for their wrongdoings. They further stated that Danda is a code given to the humanity by God to follow a righteous life. Further, ancient Indian thinkers were of the opinion that Danda should not be used as per the whims and fancies of the rulers, but only when there is presence of any anti-social elements in the society. However, this punishment should be inflicted only when necessary after much consideration. It is this punishment that keeps a check on their actions consciously or subconsciously. It was widely believed that it is only through fear of punishment that the mankind can be made more disciplined. In the ancient Indian political system, it was the responsibility of the king to maintain Dharma by means of Danda. According to Manu, it is only the king who can protect the entire mankind and for this protection, the king uses Danda as a means or as an instrument. The main reason for institution of Danda is to bring about discipline in the lives of human beings who by nature are evil and corrupt. Danda, in fact, is one of the elements of a state. The term Danda is derived from the words Dam and Dand, which refer to tame, subdue, to conquer or to restrain and the like.

Manu dharma telugu pdf