One of India's most influential figures, Chanakya's philosophies about life are still relevant even after centuries.

Chanakya, also known as 'Vishnugupta' or 'Kautilya', is regarded as the pioneer of political science and economics in India. Apart from being a gifted political strategist and economist, he was also an Indian jurist, teacher and philosopher. Being the royal advisor of Chandragupta Maurya and Bindusara Maurya, he played a significant role in the foundation and rise of Maurya Empire. While you can get a glimpse of his wisdom in the books 'Arthashastra' and 'Chanakya Niti', here are some of his quotes that will help you understand the true meaning of life.

"Once you start working on something, don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest."

"God is not present in idols. Your feelings are your God. The soul is your temple."

"The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the directions of the wind. But, the goodness of a person spreads in all direction."

"He who is prepared for the future and he who deals cleverly with any situation that may arise are both happy, but the fatalistic man who wholly depends on luck is ruined."

"Never reveal what you have thought upon doing, but by wise counsel keep it secret being determined to carry it into execution."

"Never settle for anything less than what you deserve. It's not pride, it's self-respect."

"Education is the best friend. An educated person is respected everywhere. Education beats the beauty and youth."

"A man is born alone and dies alone; and he experiences the good and bad consequences of his karma alone; and he goes alone to hell or the Supreme abode."

"It is better to die than to preserve this life by incurring disgrace. The loss of life causes but a moment's grief, but disgrace brings grief every day of one's life."

"A man is great by his deeds, not by birth."

"As soon as the fear approaches near, attack and destroy it."

"Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself."

"Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions: Why I am doing it? What the results might be? And will I be successful? Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, go ahead."

"We should not fret for what is past, nor should we be anxious about the future; men of discernment deal only with the present moment."

"The earth is supported by the power of truth. It is the power of truth that makes the sun shine and the winds blow, indeed all things rest upon truth."