Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, was the legendary political strategist and philosopher who guided Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. His work, Chanakya Niti, written around the 4th–3rd centuries BCE, remains a guiding light for living a purposeful and balanced life. One of his most enduring teachings is the four pillars of a good life—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.

1. Dharma (Righteousness)
Dharma means living by a moral code-being truthful, respectful, and fulfilling one’s duties. Chanakya believed that success without righteousness is meaningless. Dharma guides us to make decisions that benefit not just ourselves but society as a whole.

2. Artha (Wealth)
While spiritual values matter, Chanakya acknowledged the necessity of wealth. Artha means earning prosperity ethically, ensuring economic security for oneself and contributing to society. Wealth, when earned rightly, supports dharma and enables good deeds.

3. Kama (Desire)
Kama refers to the pursuit of happiness-through love, creativity, or life’s simple joys. Chanakya advised moderation, urging people to enjoy life without letting desires disrupt responsibilities.

4. Moksha (Liberation)
The ultimate goal, Moksha, is liberation from the cycle of life and death. It focuses on inner wisdom, detachment from materialism, and spiritual growth. For Chanakya, Moksha represented the highest fulfillment after worldly achievements.

These four pillars, when balanced, create a complete, meaningful life-proving that Chanakya’s ancient wisdom is still relevant in our fast-paced modern world.