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Line 175: − The above texts reveal the great stress laid on the character and qualities a Raja should possess. To this end, imparting an all round education and training to princes, and instilling in them the traits of good character and discipline was emphasised. − + + + + + +
→THE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR RULERS
== THE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR RULERS ==
== THE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR RULERS ==
The smrtis laid down a code of conduct to be deligently observed by the Rajas which applies to every kind of rulers and officers exercising governmental powers even today. They are,
The smrtis laid down a code of conduct to be diligently observed by the Rajas which applies to every kind of rulers and officers exercising governmental powers even today. They are,
===Personal qualities to be acquired by the king===
===Personal qualities to be acquired by the king===
* By reason of their being endowed with an abundance of valour, learning and wealth, and particularly on account of the supreme power (they wield), the minds of Rajas always tend to go astray (even) for the slightest reason (or impulse).
* By reason of their being endowed with an abundance of valour, learning and wealth, and particularly on account of the supreme power (they wield), the minds of Rajas always tend to go astray (even) for the slightest reason (or impulse).
* Rajas who abide by the duties especially prescribed for them attain the position of Indra, but those who go astray deviating from the path of Dharma go to the nether world (after death).
* Rajas who abide by the duties especially prescribed for them attain the position of Indra, but those who go astray deviating from the path of Dharma go to the nether world (after death).
The aforesaid directives were invariably followed both in letter and spirit by the royal families. The princes, who were in the line of succession to kingship, underwent strenuous courses under their teachers (in Gurukulashramas). In addition to education, a prince/king was required to lead a disciplined life and keep the company of respectable persons who could shape his character, thought and outlook to the ensure the public good.
== Training of Princes ==
The Dharma Shastra and Smrti texts laid great stress laid on the character and qualities a Raja should possess. The aforesaid directives were invariably followed both in letter and spirit by the royal families.
To this end, imparting an all round education and training to princes, and instilling in them the traits of good character and discipline was emphasised.
The princes, who were in the line of succession to kingship, underwent strenuous courses under their teachers (in Gurukulashramas). In addition to education, a prince/king was required to lead a disciplined life and keep the company of respectable persons who could shape his character, thought and outlook to the ensure the public good.
That is how it was possible to produce outstanding kings known to history, who exhibited remarkable ability in administration, skill in warfare and mastery of the arts. A few who disregarded these guidelines became unpopular and stood condemned. Manu enjoins kings to shun vices as they lead them to excesses in the enjoyment of power and wealth resulting in the neglect of the affairs of state.
That is how it was possible to produce outstanding kings known to history, who exhibited remarkable ability in administration, skill in warfare and mastery of the arts. A few who disregarded these guidelines became unpopular and stood condemned. Manu enjoins kings to shun vices as they lead them to excesses in the enjoyment of power and wealth resulting in the neglect of the affairs of state.