Kingship – Ancient India
Chapter – 5
- While various types of state existed in ancient India, monarchy was the most common form of government.
- The Vedic literature offers speculations on the origin of kingship, indicating it arose from military necessity.
- In the parable, gods were being defeated by demons and realized they needed a king, choosing Soma for his leadership, leading to victory.
- Indra was made king for being the most powerful and illustrious among gods; Varuna sought kingship but had to learn a chant to gain acceptance.
- These narratives suggest a belief that kingship required a capable general with acknowledged leadership.
- Success in war strengthens a leader’s position, potentially leading to hereditary kingship through capable sons.
- The Väjapeya sacrifice at a king’s coronation features a symbolic chariot race to test the military capacity of the leader.
- Society during the Vedic period was patriarchal, with families (kulas) forming local communities (viś) and tribes (jana).
- Kulapatis known for strength became vispatis, with one rising to janapati based on similar qualities.