Dvaidhibhava in the Kautiliya
Summary
The concept of “dvaidhibhava” discussed in Kautilya’s Arthashastra is a strategic doctrine relevant to kings facing multiple enemies. When a ruler takes to dvaidhibhava, he makes peace with one hostile power while concentrating his resources against another. The temporary alliance—or sandhi—can take different forms. A “hinasandhi” is a humiliating peace in which the weaker party accepts unfavourable terms, while an honourable alliance may be concluded before hostilities begin. The king’s decision hinges on relative power: if he is attacked simultaneously by two enemies, he may defeat the weaker opponent through a punitive peace and then turn against the stronger. Cessation of hostilities on one front frees his forces for operations elsewhere. The article analyses textual passages where Kautilya contrasts the roles of “ari” (enemy), “vijigsu” (would-be conqueror), “madhyama” (intermediate power) and “udasina” (neutral state). These distinctions determine whether alliances are advantageous or detrimental. The author explains that a king practising dvaidhibhava must be careful not to strengthen an allied enemy to the point where it threatens him. He also examines the ethical implications of alliances concluded under duress and the possibility of betrayal. The paper situates Kautilya’s theory within the broader framework of ancient Indian diplomacy, which categorised six measures (sadgunya): sandhi (peace), vigraha (war), yana (march), asana (residence), dvaidhibhava (dual policy) and samsraya (seeking shelter). Dvaidhibhava emerges as a flexible policy that allows a ruler to navigate triangular power relations by exploiting rivalries among neighbouring states. The article provides examples from history and literature illustrating how rulers used sandhi to isolate and defeat opponents. It underscores the pragmatism of the Arthashastra, which values expedient alliances over rigid morality. Through careful exegesis of Kautilya’s text, the paper clarifies the meaning of dvaidhibhava and its function in statecraft.
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Conclusion
The article interprets Kautilya’s concept of dvaidhibhava as a calculated diplomatic manoeuvre whereby a king secures peace with one enemy to concentrate on another. It stresses that such alliances—whether humiliating or honourable—are temporary and based on power balances. By analysing the interplay of enemies, potential allies and neutral states, the author demonstrates that dvaidhibhava provides a ruler with strategic flexibility in a multipolar environment. The discussion highlights the Arthashastra’s sophisticated understanding of international relations and underscores its continuing relevance to the study of political strategy.