| Summary/Abstract |
In their history, Indians have never undertaken conquest of foreign lands. Even the spread of Hindu kingdoms to Indonesia and Indochina was a consequence of merchant associations spreading influence through trade. The Chola punitive expeditions against Hindu states in South East Asia were more to keep trade routes safe. Why Indian states limited foreign conquests is an important idea to probe today. In contrast, India is the origin of war elephants. It has also contributed to a high-quality literature on statecraft, warcaft and strategy. But the crowning glory is contribution and export of Indian intellectual traditions on scientific and cultural matters. The article deliberates on these enduring values and concepts.
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