This book aims to shed light on Kautilya's enormous contribution to economic theory. The Arthashastra explicitly endorses and rejects any divergence from the twin ideals of artha (financial wellbeing) and dharma (righteous action). Here, a real attempt is made to update the widely acknowledged development of economic theory. It is argued that presenting Kautilya's original contributions will be successful in busting the widespread misconception that Adam Smith was the father of economics and that the discipline began in the eighteenth century. A claim is only as strong as the justifications it is supported with. The author makes compelling arguments for the first time in support of Kautilya's claim to be the father of economics in the fourth century BCE. It is also argued that Kautilya's The Arthashastra may be correctly designated as Dharmanomics: economics built on an ethical foundation, projecting economics and economic policy in a more meaningful and socially desirable perspective. The book also shows that the Hindu civilization is not averse to economic growth.