Reflections

Owing to a rich multidimensional heritage, Hindu ancient scriptures contain knowledge and wisdom pertaining to all dimensions of life – material and spiritual. The current wave of western interest in Hindu ancient scriptures can be traced back to the 1800s. The earlier interest was more on the spiritual or the existential aspects. However, in recent decades many people are making great contributions in addressing aspects of material  existence from these scriptures. One such field which has been enriched with this work is leadership. Several scriptures have in-depth content describing the aspects of governance and management. A large number of research papers, articles, seminars proceedings and books are published with evidence-based research on the benefits of these scriptures to individuals and society. However, it requires an integrative worldview by researchers to contextualize this ancient wisdom for the benefit of contemporary times.

Drawing inspiration and also practical insights from scriptures has become prominent not only in academia, but in ordinary life. The Sanātana Dharma or Hinduism worldview places a huge emphasis on the duties of an individual in different capacities during different phases of life. This is encouraging as undeniably there seems to be a dire need for good leadership in various sectors and at multiple levels of our society. The scriptures holistically address the contextual need of nature, quality and quantity in levels of duties and responsibilities from family level to nation and global level.

For instance, the duties of a king mentioned in the Arthaśāstra, offer invaluable lessons or ideas in leadership at all levels of society, from self to a head of household, from CEO to a political leader. Such lessons are relevant in different domains: political, industrial, institutional and spiritual. Here are three such ideas that have enormous potential to bring change to our leadership approach:

1. Indriya-Jaya (इन्द्रियजय) / Aatm-vijaya (आत्मविजय) – The core essence of leadership traits in the Mahābhārata, Manu-Smṛiti, and the Arthaśāstra are focused on the self-control of the leader. An individual who cannot control himself is considered ill-equipped to lead others.

2. Humility (विनय) – Humility is a key element of leadership. As per Chāṇakya Nīti, to become Indriya-jaya it is essential that one remains humble in conduct. This virtue is inculcated by serving elders, taking care of them, and learning from their experiences.
3. Loka Saṃgraha (लोकसंग्रह) – The higher purpose of life, as mentioned in the Bhagavad Gītā, provides the much needed holistic anchor. This ensures the leader is able to transcend self-interest and act towards the collective interest.

Can you think of a leader with the above mentioned traits? Did your own leadership journey take you through these ideas? If yes, we would like to hear from you. Please share those stories. We would be very happy to receive your inputs as they may provide transformational insights to many others.