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Thirukural-Right Forethought-(Administrator's Disposition)-Kural 470

Thirukural 470
Ellaadha ennichch ceyalvaendum thammodu
Kollaadha kollaadhu ulahu

Enlightened world will not tolerate actions unbecoming of a king
He should pursue only worthy ends with approved means.

The prince will never act in a manner, that the enlightened world despises, as regards worthiness of ends and means. Rajaji, following Gandhiji, lays emphasis on both these. Any act, not in keeping with princely standards of end and means (Administrator's disposition), will only bring him public disgrace.

The word 'Ulahu" world, is normally used in Tamil and Sanskrit literature to refer to the enlightened people of the world.

The special expression, 'Kollaadha" also calls for some attention. It refers to a certain kingly standard and level, below which royal actions will not descend, and should not descend.

Under the circumstances, it is very necessary, and it is expected that the king will only act in accordance with certain generally accepted royal standards, which the enlightened world will approve (Administrator's disposition)

Though the poet speaks primarily of the king, he also addresses himself to all men of worth, who uphold values.

Right Forethought

In Thirukural, Thiruvalluvar explains the different aspects associated with Right Forethought. In Kural 470, he talks on how a disposition of an administrator ought to be.

Thirukural

Thirukural is an ethical treatise, belonging to Tamil classical literature written by Thiruvalluvar. Ramanandha Adigalar Foundation has come up with its English translation of the classic. Read Thirukural in English.

Story first published: Friday, October 1, 2010, 17:38 [IST]