Navigating Apropos Midst Kautilya’s Mandala’s Ploy and Contemporary India’s International Relations Plays: An Analysis

Abstract

The foremost objective of the study is to provide pragmatic in-depth analysis of India’s contemporary offensive as well as hegemonic backed-strategies regarding dealing with neighbors by following kautliya "Arthashastra” wisdom which reciprocate is the main pillar of India’s foreign policy since inception. The study examines the relationship between Kautilya's Mandala theory, a cornerstone of ancient Indian foreign policy expertise, and how it informs modern India's approaches to international relations. Kautilya's Mandala theory is presented in the "Arthashastra," which highlights the intricate interconnection of surrounding states by visualizing a circle of alliances and conflicts influencing a central authority. In India's current foreign policy endeavors, the Mandala concept remains vital. India's policy of 'Neighborhood First' towards its neighbors is a reflection of the Mandala's focus on fostering relationships with neighboring governments to uphold regional peace and safeguard national interests as well as aligns India's with multilateral forums, bilateral partnerships, and strategic alliances. The applicability of Kautilya's Mandala theory to the challenges and opportunities of India's current global engagement is thoroughly examined in this essay. It looks at how India strikes a balance between the ideals of the Mandala and the challenges of contemporary international relations, taking into account the varied players, interests, and shifting dynamics of the global scene? It also takes into account how India's objectives of strategic autonomy, regional dominance, and worldwide leadership are aided by this adaptability? This study is qualitative in nature and follows analytical, descriptive methods along with content and desk analysis.