विदुर - नीति

by Gita Press

Vidura, a unique character of the Mahabharata, was an erudite scholar of ethics. The book is a collection of his wonderful pretext delivered to Dhritarashtra with text and translation thereof.

Genres: Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Paritosh Vyas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a discussion between Vidura and The blind King Dhritrashtra before the Mahabharata war took place.

Vidur advised the king to reach a compromise with the Pandavas and avert a.tragedy.

Vidura Niti consists of profound ethical, social, and political teachings delivered by Vidura to King Dhritarashtra in the Mahabharata's Udyoga Parva (Chapters 33-40). It offers timeless wisdom on righteousness (dharma), governance, emotional control, and decision-making for success. The core message emphasizes that success is only sustainable when anchored in ethics.

Key Quotes and Wisdoms:

"He whom neither anger nor joy, nor pride, nor false modesty... can draw away from the high ends of life, is considered as wise".

"By means of virtue should he attain success, by means of virtue should he sustain it".

"A man is not born wise, his habits, decisions, and personality make them wise".

Modern Relevance: These teachings are highly applicable to modern work life, emphasizing integrity, managing emotions, and sound leadership.

[Aditaya Maini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read both the newer edition available in the market and an older version I found on my father's bookshelf. Interestingly, the two versions differ significantly — and without a doubt, the older edition is an absolute gem.

The book begins by exploring the circumstances surrounding Vidur's birth, offering insights into his profound wisdom from the very start. It tells his Neeti through the compelling conversations between him and Dhritarashtra, highlighting how Vidur consistently balanced complex situations with wisdom and integrity and embodying and defining Dharama through his actions and counsel.

A message that remains deeply relevant even in today's times.

"the ratings are only for the older version"

[Krish Vikram · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Book is a conversation between Vidura and Dhritarashtra. Vidura advises king to give Pandavas the due, citing virtues to be exhibited in various situations.
Though the book mostly targets Rulers/Politicians.
Many points are relevant to civilians of this era as well. It gives guidelines for people management.

Recommendation: Yes
Rating: 3.8/5

[Avinash Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Certain shlokas of this book appeared in my high school book. It still fondly remembered them. Last year when we visited Kashi vishwanath on my wife's suggestions I picked up this book from the Geeta Press shop there. I think this is one of the best blessings I received there to know the way of life and people who are looking for an after reading for Bhagvad Geeta must read this book.

[Jay Mehta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read. I am not an expert in Sanskrit, so this has to do more with the Hindi translation in terms of content.
Vidur Ji's insights into human behaviour are quite unique. The book is divided into eight adhyayas, with the first one being the longest. Every adhyaya talks about an aspect of our behaviour and what is right and what is wrong.
I am unsure if it is the translation or the actual content; some shlokas are not applicable in today's day and age, while a few are outright problematic. But keeping those aside, it's a good guide on how to conduct oneself ideally. Definitely to be read, especially if you are a young adult or a student.

[Prasad Shinde · Rating 2 out of 5]

Low ratings not for the translation but the original Sanskrit content.

[Gooal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice