Chanakya (written/directed, and played by Dr.Chandraprakash Dwivedi) is a class of its own. Though the tele-serial did not do well when telecast on Doordarshan (the Indian national television), the amount of research that went into producing the serial, the historical accuracy, and the care taken in costume every aspect of production is remarkable.
The background music is played only by instrument that were prevalent in 3rd century BC. You will also notice that the Indian horsemen will ride without saddles (which was not introduced to India before Alexander's visit to Takshasila.) The swords and shields used was also a replica of those from the Mauryan times. The most commendable aspect being the setting itself. Dr.Chandraprakash Dwivedi spent over 1 crore (10 million) rupees back in those days, for reconstructing a replica village/city of the Mauryan times. Though the city is not 100% a replica of 3rd Century Pataliputra or Takshasila, it is remarkably planned and structured as per the definitions given in Chanakya's book - the Arthashastra.
Chanakya Kautilya has been my role model since I was 7 years old. This is a man who's very thoughts will send shivers down your spine, and his insights will help you in every aspect of life - be it business, politics, or domestic affairs.
I own the eight part DVD of "Chanakya" tele-serial and have seen it over and over in the past three years. Once I play the first episode, I know for sure that I am incapable of watching anything else till we finish the entire set.
This serial is recommended for history buffs, students of politics, and common folks like me who love Chanakya.
