Once you start a working on something, don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest.
ChanakyaRead
A man attains greatness by his merits, not simply by occupying an exalted seat. Can we call a crow an eagle (garuda) simply because he sits on the top of a tall building.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True greatness comes from one's actions and character, not just from status or position.
This quote emphasizes that true merit and excellence are defined by an individual's achievements and qualities rather than their title or status. It uses the metaphor of a crow perched on a high building, suggesting that mere appearance of grandeur does not equate to true greatness or nobility.
Themes
GreatnessMeritStatusAchievementsCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared in a motivational speech to inspire individuals to focus on personal development rather than just seeking titles.
More from Chanakya
All quotes →Let not a single day pass without your learning a verse, half a verse, or a fourth of it, or even one letter of it; nor without attending to charity, study and other pious activity.
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The life of an uneducated man is as useless as the tail of a dog which neither covers its rear end, nor protects it from the bites of insects.
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The serpent, the king, the tiger, the stinging wasp, the small child, the dog owned by other people, and the fool: these seven ought not to be awakened from sleep.
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Whoever imposes severe punishment becomes repulsive to the people; while he who awards mild punishment becomes contemptible. But whoever imposes punishment as deserved becomes respectable.
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One whose knowledge is confined to books and whose wealth is in the possession of others, can use neither his knowledge nor wealth when the need for them arises.
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