Chanakya Policy & Research Foundation

In the intricate and fluid domain of geopolitics, where national interests often clash and arrangements are in a state of constant flux, the wisdom of Bhishma, as presented in the Mahabharata’s Shanti Parva, provides profound insights into the art of governance. Bhishma’s discourse on statecraft, diplomacy, and warfare go beyond its mythological origins, presenting a sophisticated treatise on political strategy that retains its relevance even in the context of contemporary global challenges. This article examines the applicability of Bhishma’s principles to modern geopolitical dilemmas, drawing on specific teachings from the Shanti Parva to offer a nuanced perspective on leadership and statecraft.

Geopolitics today is characterised by a high degree of complexity, marked by dynamic arrangements, intricate economic interdependencies, and emerging security threats that demand context-sensitive responses. In this evolving landscape, nations must contend with issues such as international terrorism, resource scarcity, and the strategic rivalry among major powers. Bhishma’s insights on leadership, strategic foresight, and ethical governance continue to be relevant, offering us a framework that holds on to both the structural and moral dimensions of statecraft. His teachings on the essential components of governance, the strategic use of intelligence, the intricacies of diplomacy, and the ethics of warfare provide a comprehensive foundation for contemporary global leaders striving to negotiate an interconnected and often volatile international system.

Bhishma’s niti (policy) emphasises the importance of balancing power with ethical values, a concept that is critical to achieving sustained national stability and prosperity. Effective governance, whether in antiquity or in the present day, requires not only the exercise of strategic acumen and strength but also a commitment to moral principles. This synthesis of pragmatic statecraft and ethical considerations forms the core of Bhishma’s teachings, which, when applied thoughtfully, can guide modern political leaders in formulating policies for both internal cohesion and international respect.

• The Saptanga Theory: Pillars of Statecraft (Shanti Parva 57.05–57.10)

Bhishma presents the Saptanga theory, which describes the seven essential limbs of a kingdom: the King, Ministers, Territory, Forts, Treasury, Army, and Allies. These elements, according to Bhishma are all crucial for the survival and prosperity of the state and that they must work together cohesively.

“सप्ताङ्गस्य च राज्यस्य विपरीतं य आचरेत्।

गुरुरपि यदि वा मित्रं प्रतिहन्तव्य एव सः।। ५ ।। (Shanti Parva 57.05)

These are seven fundamental elements of governance, and those who go against these, be it Guru or Mitra are to be killed. In today’s world, the Saptanga framework remains highly relevant, paralleling modern state mechanisms. Each of these seven components has a direct counterpart in contemporary governance structures, showing that Bhishma’s insights cut across time. For example, the arrangement-building strategies employed by organisations like NATO or BRICS reflect Bhishma’s emphasis on maintaining strong arrangements. Similarly, the focus on military modernization in superpowers like the United States, China, and Russia is nothing but the importance Bhishma placed on having a capable and well-equipped army.

Maintaining a strong treasury is another critical component of Bhishma’s theory, one that resonates with the economic policies nations adopt today to ensure growth and stability. Fiscal measures, monetary reforms, and initiatives for financial sustainability all align with Bhishma’s idea of a well-functioning treasury. Nations must prioritize fiscal discipline, the value of economic strength as a pillar of national resilience.

These seven elements are not independent of one another, they are deeply interconnected, and a deficiency in one can destabilise the entire system. For instance, the collapse of the Soviet Union was largely due to the weakening of its economic stability (treasury) and its failure to maintain effective arrangements. This example serves as a powerful reminder that no aspect of governance can be neglected without consequences.

The Saptanga model is ultimately about more than just the effective functioning of individual parts. It is about understanding how these elements work together, supporting and reinforcing each other to create a strong and thriving state. For modern leaders, this holistic approach offers a valuable lesson: a nation is only as strong as its weakest link.

• Spy Networks and Intelligence (Shanti Parva 69.06–69.13)

The importance of maintaining a strong and effective intelligence network is marked in this part. Bhishma emphasizes that a wise king must rely on spies to protect the kingdom from both internal and external threats. The role of spies is not only to gather information but also to discern the true intentions of both allies and enemies, ultimately safeguarding the state from potential vulnerabilities.

चारांश्च विद्यात् प्रतिष्ठान् परेण भरतर्षभ।

आपणेषु विहारेषु समाजेषु च भिक्षुषु।। ३१।।

आरामेषु तथोद्याने पण्डितानां समाजगे।

देशेषु च व सभा वादवस्थेषु च।। ३२।।

O best of the Bharatas! A king must deploy spies in the markets, public places, and gatherings, among beggars, in parks, gardens, and assemblies of scholars.

Similarly, spies must also be sent to regions, assemblies, and places where debates and discussions take place.

The wisdom of Bhishma’s words becomes particularly clear when we consider the modern world, where intelligence agencies play a crucial role In national security. From counterterrorism to cyber-security, agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad rely heavily on intelligence gathering to protect their nations. The strategies that these agencies employ are preemptive action against threats, monitoring internal dissent, and countering espionage, which is what would be course of action Bhishma’s Niti.

In today’s geopolitical environment, the significance of intelligence has only increased, driven by advancements in technology. Cyber warfare, data breaches, and misinformation campaigns have become powerful tools for both state and non-state actors. Bhishma’s emphasis on intelligence can be seen in the sophisticated surveillance systems, satellite technology, and cyber capabilities that modern nations use to protect their Interests. Consider the revelations made by Edward Snowden about the NSA’s extensive surveillance programs; these examples show how nations prioritize intelligence to foresee and mitigate threats before they become unmanageable.

The value of intelligence in international relations also extends beyond security alone. It plays a vital role in diplomacy, helping nations understand the intentions of both allies and adversaries. During the Cold War, for example, the United States and the Soviet Union relied heavily on their respective intelligence services to assess each other’s military capabilities and political motives. Fast forward to today, and intelligence continues to be at the core of managing tensions in areas like the South China Sea, where the U.S., China, and neighboring countries closely monitor one another to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to conflict.

Bhishma’s perspective on the role of intelligence in governance remains as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago—an essential tool for building a secure and resilient state.

• Shadagunya: The Six-Fold Policy of Diplomacy (Shanti Parva 69.66–69.68)

Bhishma elaborates on Shadagunya—the six strategies of diplomacy that a wise ruler must navigate carefully. These six strategies are:

Sandhi (Peace): Forming arrangements or treaties to ensure stability and mutual benefit.

Asana (Neutrality): Remaining in a state of inactivity or non-involvement, allowing the situation to unfold without intervention.

Yatra (Marching): Preparing and mobilizing an army, showcasing readiness and strength, whether for deterrence or actual engagement.

Vigraha (War): Engaging in direct conflict when necessary, ensuring that threats are met with an appropriate response.

Daidhṛibhāva (Duplicity): Creating divisions among enemies, employing tactics that weaken adversaries by sowing discord.

Sharana (Refuge/Samshraya): Seeking shelter or protection, either through forming arrangements or finding refuge when faced with overwhelming threats.

पाड़गुण्यमिति यत् प्रोक्तं तन्निबोध युधिष्ठिर।

संधानासनमित्येव यात्रासंधानमेव च।। ६७।।

विग्रहासनमित्येव यात्रा सम्परीगृह्य च।

दैध्रीभावस्थायञ्च संश्रयोद्व्य परस्य च।। ६८।।

O Yudhishthira, the six strategies (Shadgunya) of foreign policy are: Sandhi (Peace), Asana (Neutrality), Yatra (Marching), Vigraha (War), Daidhṛibhāva (Duplicity), and Sharana (Refuge).

This principle shows the diplomatic maneuvers seen today, such as India’s strategic neutrality during global conflicts and China’s Belt and Road Initiative blending arrangements with economic expansion. Bhishma’s niti focuses on the need for adaptability and the importance of assessing the geopolitical environment before selecting a particular course of action.

In modern geopolitics, the concept of Shadagunya can be observed in the way countries like India shape and develop their foreign policy. India’s non-alignment stance during the Cold War, and its current policy of strategic autonomy, reflects the principle of staying neutral (Asana) when it serves national interests. At the same time, India’s participation in the Quad, alongside the U.S., Japan, and Australia, demonstrates the use of arrangements (Dvaidhibhava) to counterbalance China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Bhishma’s Shadagunya also presents the idea that diplomacy is not static; it is a constantly evolving process. The ability to discern when to seek peace and when to prepare for conflict, or when to form arrangements versus when to remain neutral, is crucial for effective statecraft. The complexities of modern international relations demand a nuanced understanding of these strategies, which can be employed in varying combinations to maximize national interests while minimizing risks.

Similarly, China employs a combination of these strategies through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). By investing in infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, and Europe, China is effectively forming arrangements (Dvaidhibhava) while also positioning itself for economic expansion. At the same time, it has used Sandhi (peace) to strengthen diplomatic ties with countries that participate in the BRI, thereby creating economic dependencies that can be leveraged in the future.

The Importance has also been laid on Samshraya: seeking shelter or support when needed. Smaller nations often rely on this strategy when they form defense agreements with larger powers. For example, NATO provides collective security to its member states, ensuring that even smaller countries have the backing of more powerful allies. Bhishma’s advice on choosing the right strategy based on circumstances is a reminder of the need for a dynamic approach to diplomacy that balances risk and opportunity, which is highlighted in Six fold policy of Shadagunya.

• Alliance Formation and Caution (Shanti Parva 69.14–16)

Then Bhishma the importance of careful deliberation when forming arrangements, warning against placing blind trust in partners.

“न विश्वसेच्च नृपतिः न चात्यर्थं च विश्वसेत्। षाड्गुण्यगुणदोषांश्च नित्यं बुद्ध्यावलोकयेत्।।”(Shanti Parva 69.16)

A king should never trust anyone blindly, nor should he be excessively mistrustful. He must constantly assess the virtues and flaws of the six strategies (Shadgunya) with intelligence.

The ongoing tensions between Russia and NATO is an example of the dangers Bhishma warned about. Alliances formed without a deep understanding of each other’s long-term intentions can lead to unintended escalation instead of stability. The NATO-Russia conflict is important example for evaluating arrangements cautiously, as blind trust in treaties can result in disastrous consequences.

In today’s geopolitical landscape, arrangements are often driven by necessity rather than genuine trust. Nations may align themselves based on shared threats or economic benefits, but such relationships can be fragile and prone to sudden changes. Bhishma’s teachings remind contemporary leaders to evaluate the resilience and reliability of arrangements, considering both short-term benefits and long-term consequences.

Bhishma’s caution also extends to economic arrangements. The European Union, for instance, has faced numerous challenges due to economic disparities among its member states, leading to tensions over fiscal policies and resource allocation. The Brexit referendum is a prime example of how perceived inequities within an arrangement can ultimately lead to its dissolution. Bhishma’s counsel to carefully discern the strengths and weaknesses of allies is vital for maintaining stability in such unions.

Bhishma’s wisdom teaches that arrangements must be formed based on realistic assessments rather than idealistic expectations. Trust should be earned through consistent actions, but even then, caution is crucial. In a world where geopolitical landscapes are constantly evolving, a wise leader must recognize that today’s ally could potentially become tomorrow’s adversary. This cautious and well-thought-out approach is essential for minimizing risks and ensuring that arrangements develop stability rather than create new vulnerabilities.

• War Strategy: Rules and Ethics (Shanti Parva 95.06–95.22)

In Shanti Parva, Bhishma sets ethical standards for warfare, including respecting non-combatants and minimizing collateral damage.

“नैवासन्नद्धकवचो योद्धव्यः क्षत्रियो रणे। एक एकेन वाच्यश्च विसृजेति क्षिपामि च।।“(Shanti Parva 95.07)

A Kshatriya should not fight an unarmed opponent. One warrior must challenge another openly, saying, ‘Release your weapon, and I shall release mine.’

Bhishma emphasizes that war must adhere to principles of fairness, sparing those who are vulnerable or incapable of fighting back.

“युद्धं धर्मेण कर्तव्यं रक्षणं वध्यातः सदा। न च हीनात्मं त्यजेत् क्षत्रियः।।“(Shanti Parva 95.12)

War must adhere to principles of dharma, sparing the innocent and preserving righteousness.

This ethos is reflected in the Geneva Conventions, which codify humanitarian treatment in conflicts. Nations today grapple with balancing military objectives and ethical constraints. Bhishma’s emphasis on ethical conduct in warfare is particularly relevant in an era where civilian casualties and collateral damage are highly scrutinized by the international community.

The principle of proportionality, which is a cornerstone of international humanitarian law, resontes with Bhishma’s teachings. Modern military engagements are expected to minimize harm to civilians, and any action must be proportionate to the intended military advantage. For example, during conflicts in Gaza, international bodies have often called for restraint to avoid excessive civilian casualties, reflecting the same ethical considerations that Bhishma espoused.

“नाश्वेन रथिनं यायादुदियाद् रथिनं रथी। व्यसने न प्रहर्तव्यं न भीताय जिताय च।।“(Shanti Parva 95.10)

One should not attack a charioteer while riding on a horse, nor should a charioteer attack an unarmed person. One must not strike an enemy who is in distress, afraid, or already defeated.

 Bhishma’s emphasis on protecting the innocent aligns with the evolving nature of warfare, where non-state actors and asymmetric tactics are increasingly common. Counterterrorism operations must balance the need to neutralize threats with the obligation to protect civilian lives. The U.S. drone strike program, for example, has faced criticism for causing unintended civilian casualties, highlighting the ethical dilemmas inherent in modern warfare.

Bhishma’s teachings remind modern leaders that the pursuit of victory should not come at the cost of moral integrity. Ethical warfare is not only a matter of adhering to international norms but also of maintaining legitimacy in the eyes of both domestic and international audiences. A nation that disregards ethical standards in warfare risks losing the support of its citizens and the respect of the global community. Upholding the principles of dharma in conflict ensures that the aftermath of war does not breed further hatred and resentment, which could lead to prolonged instability.

• The Relevance of Bhishma Niti in Modern Geopolitics

Bhishma’s teachings provide a well-rounded framework for governance, emphasizing balance, foresight, and ethical principles. In today’s complex geopolitical environment, his wisdom offers practical insights into several key challenges:

Terrorism and Insurgencies: Bhishma’s advice on strengthening intelligence networks and building strategic arrangements is highly relevant. The rise of non-state actors and insurgencies demands robust intelligence capabilities to prevent threats and maintain stability, just as Bhishma emphasized the need to gather information and be vigilant.

Economic Sanctions: Bhishma stressed sustainable resource management, which is crucial in dealing with economic sanctions today. When nations face sanctions, they need to effectively manage their resources and maintain diplomatic ties to reduce the impact and keep the economy stable. Bhishma’s insights help leaders balance these complex issues while ensuring resilience.

Military Ethics: Bhishma’s teachings on conducting war ethically are particularly important in today’s world, where information spreads instantly, and the conduct of nations is under constant scrutiny. Maintaining ethical standards in military actions helps a country preserve its legitimacy and avoid international backlash.

Bhishma also taught the importance of adaptability. In the fast-changing world of modern geopolitics, where power shifts, technological advancements, and new threats emerge constantly, being adaptable is key. By following Bhishma’s guidance in the Shadagunya, nations can choose the best diplomatic approach for different situations—whether that means making peace, forming arrangements, or remaining neutral. This flexibility is essential to effectively respond to global challenges. Bhishma’s teachings remind us that effective governance is about understanding both internal and external factors that affect a nation’s stability. Whether it’s managing arrangements, conducting war with ethics, or using intelligence wisely, Bhishma’s niti provides a guide for building resilient and prosperous nations. His wisdom is truly timeless, offering lessons that are just as valuable now as they were in ancient times