Kautilyanomics by Sriram Balasubramaniam |Book review

 Book review:

"Nurture a son for the first five years, chastise him for the subsequent 10years. When he attains the age of 16years, treat him like a friend" - Quote from the book that reminded me how to deal with trivial situations to lessen chaos in life. 

The book is divided into eight sections with maps, figures and tables to explain and elucidate the complex principles of economics. The book begins with the mantra of Mahaupanishad and Shloka from Kautilya Arthashastra which capture the purpose behind kautilyanomics. Concepts of Yogakshema and Rakshana has been the foundation of Bhartiya economics.

 The book covers topics ranging from macro level to micro, giving us an idea of how theories related to finance and precisely economics work! It discusses topics like wealth creation, sustainable growth, throws light on wealth creation and much more. The book attempts to look at Kautilya's thinking and its relevance today from a holistic perspective. The book completely explores the Kautilya's views on savings as an instrument of growth - something that is very relevant to the Indian economic growth. 

The book deliberately doesn't take a judgemental view but rather highlights the linkages to today's economic themes. The author shares the neccessity of not focusing on harmonius living, personal harmony and well being couldn't be acheived and as an extension , social harmony would also be affected. 

The author has well penned his deep research and knowledge in lucid manner to explain the relevance of Kautilya's economics in today's scenario. His graphical representation of data and comparative charts makes the concept more crystal clear. He has also penned down some typical sanskrit terms that connects the reader with our tradition and relevance of Vedas.

Overall, the book aims to explain why Kautilya is more relevant today as the father of modern economic thinking. A must read book for everyone, not just limited to policy makers and intellectuals !