In a world driven by western ideals of leadership that often prioritize individual achievement and competition, this article embarks on a journey to explore a distinct and time-honoured Indian perspective on leadership. As we travel to the serene Mrudunga Saileswari Temple, three of us (authors) engage in a profound conversation that delves into the heart of leadership, as seen through the prism of Indian thought.
Drawing inspiration from India’s rich cultural and philosophical heritage, our discussion uncovers a set of core principles that redefine the essence of leadership. The Indian perspective cherishes humility, inner strength, and self-mastery. It holds the belief that true leadership is grounded in service to others and is inextricable linked to one’s adherence to dharma—the path of righteousness and duty. Karma, the law of cause and effect, plays a pivotal role, emphasizing that ethical actions are the cornerstone of personal growth and spiritual advancement. Our exploration reveals that leadership, in the Indian context, is characterized by a profound sense of compassion.
This article is an invitation to embrace the ancient wisdom that Bharat offers—a vision of leadership deeply rooted in humility, inner strength, and timeless principles of dharma and karma. In a world where leadership has been moulded by western ideas, our journey rekindles the age-old Bharatheeya Dharshana and Philosophy that may provide profound insights for modern leaders and organizations seeking an ethical and harmonious path forward.
Discussions
Leadership, a timeless concept, takes on a unique form when viewed through the lens of ancient Indian wisdom. In the rich tapestry of Indian thought, leadership is not merely a pursuit of material gain; it is a journey of self-discovery, ethics, and the attainment higher consciousness. This perspective deeply rooted in the essence of ‘Sanatana Dharma’ including all Dharmic religions, offers profound insights into what leadership means in the Indian context.
In the western paradigm of leadership, the focus often centres on material or monetary benefits. Success is measured by the extent of financial gain accrued from a task. If one is suitably compensated, the act is deemed “fair” and justifiable. While this approach holds merit, it diverges from the Indian ethos.
In India, Leadership is more than a pursuit of wealth; it is a quest for higher consciousness. It is the embodiment of a person who has ascended to an exceptional state of intellectual and spiritual awareness. This leadership transcends the material realm and delves into the realms of the spiritual, scientific, and metaphysical. It recognizes that the fabric of existence, which underlines and governs all phenomena, extends beyond the physical and biological to encompass the spiritual and metaphysical.
The foundation of Indian leadership lies in the concept of “Sanathan Dharma” or the eternal way of life. It acknowledges that we are not confined to the “Anamaya Kosha” or the material sheath. Instead, it embraces the notion of “Panchamaya Kosha,” where we progress from the material to the spiritual layers of existence. This journey encompasses “Vijnanamaya Kosha,” and finally culminates in the outermost layer, the blissful sheath or “Anandamaya Kosha”.
This deep inner journey represents the essence of Indian leadership. It symbolizes the transcendence from the material to the spiritual, from the mundane to the profound. Indian leaders, with their elevated consciousness, impact lives not through patronization, but through inspiration. Their actions are seen as sage-like, and they guide individuals towards self-realization and transformation.
In the Indian paradigm, leadership is an embodiment of wisdom, compassion, and a profound understanding of life’s intricate layers. It is a leadership that has been honed through the mastering of knowledge in ancient times, within the framework of Sanatana Dharma and its Dharmic counterparts.
The enduring tapestry of Indian wisdom and leadership shines through the annals of history, drawing from the ancient wellspring of knowledge that has nurtured this great civilization. It is a tapestry woven with threads of self-awareness, balance, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. In this paradigm, the Indian ethos embraces the profound belief that even if we haven’t reached the pinnacle of consciousness today, we are on an inexorable journey. We would say’ in long run we will reach there, and we may achieve in rebirth. It transcends the boundaries of birth and rebirth, extending an unwavering hand towards that higher state of being.
The Indian perspective is one of boundless positivity and self-contentment. It operates without the need for comparison, understanding that the ultimate destination will be reached—be it in this lifetime or the next. This conviction radiates across all aspects of life, infusing every facet with that inherent sense of blissfulness. The Indian belief system embodies this affirmative sprit. It instils the wisdom that true leadership stems from the heart, emerging as a guardian and mentor, like the sages of old. True leaders lead from behind, providing gentle guidance, and only stepping forward in times of dire need, saying, “I shall bear the burden, and I shall protect you”. The people here will support this. In these moments, Indian witnesses a collective nod of approval, for such leadership resonates deep within the hearts of its people.
Conversely, the Western perspective on leadership is rooted in the rigors of military and war history. The origin of their leadership paradigm was forged on the battlefield, where the infantry led the way. Bravery meant charging into the frontlines, unyielding, unwavering, and resolute. There was no concept of guidance or mentorship form this rear—their leadership approach is straightforward and unswerving.
When it comes to intellect and the intricate craft of statecraft, the Indian approach is marked by subtlety and spiritual depth. (Subtle), (Chanakya Neethi) – in Statecraft also we should not lead actually, we should lead spiritually, “subtlety”, we would say “you do it, do it this way” and what we need to do is give only the ‘Principles’ no the final steps. If we had given the final steps, people will get confused. A true leader must exhibit strength in body, mind, sprit, and emotion, coupled with the loftiest wisdom. In the Indian narrative, leadership isn’t about giving precise, finite steps; it’s about imparting the fundamental principles. The final steps are entrusted to the innate creativity and wisdom of the individuals.
This contrasting perspective has led to distinctive approaches to leadership and management. the western mindset meticulously plans, analysing every angle, adhering to specific Standard Operating Procedures. Conversely, the Indian way believed in the boundless realm of possibilities, where meticulous planning isn’t the foundation of success. Instead, it’s a realm of inspiration where the mind’s creative potential is harnessed.
This approach has shaped the grand tapestry of Indian civilization, spanning urban planning, the establishment of revered university like Nalanda, Takshashila, Mithila, Kanthaloor Shala, Kanchipuram, Manyaketha, Jaggadhala, Pushpagiri, Valabhi, Sharada Peet, Pushpa Giri Vihara, Odntapuri, Vikrama Shilla, Sompura Maha Vihara, Bikrampur, Ujjayin, and many others. India has contributed to the world’s knowledge, from the Vedas to the tantric texts, from ancient literature to architectural marvels, including the construction of temples, preserving art and culture. Indian wisdom radiated across the globe, creating an “Indian Cultural Sphere” that influenced and illuminated Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond. This legacy is a testament to the heights that can be reached when leadership and knowledge walk hand in hand.
In this magnificent journey, the wisdom of India continues to resonate through the corridors of time, offering inspiration and guidance to leaders and seekers alike. It stands as a testament to the boundless potential of human consciousness, where leadership, guided by spiritual wisdom, leads to a brighter and more harmonious world.
In India, rigid leadership isn’t the part most tread. Instead, the Indian ethos thrives on adaptability, believing in the potential to navigate real-life situations much like the distinct styles of Kathakali found in ‘Kottayam’ and ‘Kadathanad’. These two styles each offer unique performances, characterized by their differences. The rigorous training undergone in these disciplines nurtures the plasticity of the brain, allowing it to become flexible and realize its full potential. The brain evolves, embracing a broader perspective, enabling individuals to remain relevant and responsive to the dynamic situations they encounter. This malleability of thought and perspective is a hallmark of the Indian approach, where leadership and wisdom aren’t rigid, but dynamic and adaptable.
The flexibility of mind cultivated through training results in automatic relevance in chaotic situations. It’s an emergence in a chaos theory, where ideas come forward naturally, not necessarily through meticulous planning. The planning is primarily aimed at training the mind for flexibility and discipline, not to prescribe specific solutions for every situation. In this approach, leadership often involves leading from behind, an approach that has proven to be highly effective. Unfortunately, in our current university structure, there’s often a lack of exercises aimed at moulding students into a state of super-consciousness. This absence is reflected in the faculty’s inability to impart this wonderful sense of wisdom and leadership to the students. The faculty needs to recapture the ability to be frank and open, especially when dealing with younger generations, without tension or hesitation, which was once a defining characteristic of their role.
A young faculty member once approached me, (Dr. Prof Shankaran) saying, “Sir, I don’t take attendance”. I responded, “That’s excellent!”. However, he still has 120 students in his class. I advised him to track attendance, ensuring it doesn’t slip through the cracks. But here’s the thing—he’s an outstanding teacher who consistently receives excellent feedback. People recognize his expertise, and when they know someone’s doing a great job, it serves as a form of evaluation. It’s a form of self-evaluation, and it genuinely works. People become open and honest, merging their emotions with their intellect. In Indian thinking, intellect and emotions are closely interconnected, and will power plays a significant role. This approach has been successful on our company, where we value truth. I don’t claim to hold the absolute truth, but I strive to follow what I believe is truthful. I’m not asserting that I am the guardian of truth. So right from the start, I’ve held a distinct position, quite different from the mainstream.
In the intricate tapestry of life, there exist not only profound forces of virtue and light but also formidable adversaries, akin to the character “Mandhara” in the great Indian epics, who always opposes great things. As our journey leads us towards humility, consciousness, and virtuous deeds, we must be prepared to encounter opposition from these shadowy figures. It is their nature to contest the path of truth and wisdom, for they, too, are endowed with immense potential to obstruct our noble endeavours. In the wise words of Sri. Aurobindo, “Embrace the adversarial forces that may be set your path, for within them lies an unanticipated strength. The fiercer the opposition, the greater the potential for your growth and transformation.” This profound insight is deeply rooted in the spiritual essence of Dharma, where challenges are not seen as obstacles but as opportunities of self-evolution. The narratives from the timeless tales of Jataka or the Ramayana, illustrates the eternal struggle between light and darkness, vividly portray the battle between righteousness and malevolence. Whether it is the relentless pursuit of the Buddha’s enlightenment or the noble journey of Lord Rama, both stories are filled with encounters with negative forces that seek to hinder the heroes’ virtuous quests. In the face of adversity, these great figures draw strength from their unwavering commitment to Dharma. So, as we navigate the complexities of life, taking wisdom of our sages, we must embrace opposition as a catalyst for inner growth and a testament to the power of prayer and righteousness.
In the cosmic journey of human evolution, the profound realm of ‘Prana maya Kosha,’ often referred to as the sheath of vital energy, embodies an electrifying power. It is a force that pulses through the very core of our being, resonating with the rhythm of life itself. This vital energy, harnessed and nurtured by the ancient Indian sages, has been a well spring of inspiration and transformation.
However, it is crucial to understand that the Western world, in its zealous quest for knowledge and technological advancement, bypassed the depths of ‘Prana maya Kosha’. Engulfed in the fervour of colonization and cutthroat competition, quest for monopoly, they overlooked the subtle but profound realm of vital energy that has been an integral part of the Indian way of life. This oversight is akin to poignant episode from the epic Mahabharata. Just as Arjuna, in his pursuit of archery prowess, sought the guidance of the great master Drona, the West, too, has pursued knowledge and innovation with an unmatched fervour. However, Arjuna’s transformation was not solely a product of mastering the art of archery; it was deeply rooted in his understanding of the profound energy within around him. In contrast, the Western world, like Duryodhana, may have acquired impressive external weaponry but remained distant from the deeper well of inner strength, the Prana maya kosha.
The Mahabharata reminds us that true power and mastery transcend the mere physical or intellectual realm. As we reflect on the journey of humanity, we find that the wisdom of the prana maya kosha is a missing link in western endeavours. The time has come for a harmonious fusion of the eastern understanding of energy and the western pursuit of knowledge, creating a holistic approach to innovation, spirituality, and human potential.
“ज्ञानेनात्मनि पश्यन्ति केचिदात्मानमात्मना। अन्ये सांख्येन योगेन कर्मयोगेन चापरे॥”
This verse conveys that some realize the self through knowledge, while others perceive it within themselves through meditation. Yet others realize the self within themselves through the path of renunciation and still others through the path of selfless action.
“विचारेणैकपथेन पथित्व”
vichāreṇaikapathena pathitva
Translates to “travelling one path through contemplation”. It underscores the significance of exploring various paths of thought and ideology, alluding to the idea that diverse perspectives and contemplation help humanity progress and understand the complexities of existence.
Human thought is as diverse as the cultures and geographies from which it emerges. This diversity is not merely a product of chance but a reflection of the multifaceted nature of our existence. Nature, in its wisdom, allows for the organic development of ideas and perspectives, nurturing a rich tapestry of ideologies and ways of living. Just as a variety of seeds planted in different soils yield distinct but valuable crops, the presence of opposing thoughts and models is vital for the growth of society. It is through this interplay of diverse ideas that we come to discern the path of progress. Without the coexistence of differing ideologies and world views, we may never truly appreciate which is the right or acceptable direction for development.
Without the counterbalance of diverse perspectives and opposing thoughts, the awareness and appreciation of what is right and conducive for development may be lost, resulting in missed ‘realizations’ of essential aspects.
“In the contemporary era of development, we observe a resurgence of strong nationalism and a return to ancient values in Bharat (India). The younger generation, particularly on various social media platforms, is expressing a deep connection to their Indian cultural roots and heritage. If the Indian population collaborates extensively and adopts a collective Indian way of thinking rooted in Dharma, along with the leadership principles envisioned by our sages, there can be nothing more profound and beneficial for the world”.
This is because in India, we have moved away from the concept of relentless competition and instead focus on nurturing individual merit and autonomy. Here, we encourage a discourse where we can freely declare what is right and what is wrong. This degree of intellectual freedom can lead us to extraordinary achievements. The absence of such intellectual liberty is what China may eventually grapple with, potentially giving rise to internal conflicts and challenges, as we have witnessed in regions like Hong Kong.
The distinction between mild change and rapid revolution is that the former takes on a static appearance while the latter is conspicuous even to the most inattentive observes. However, both evolution and revolution are simply different facets of the same historical process, varying only in terms of intensity and violence. Chinese culture is no exception to this rule. Throughout its long history, it has been subject to a constant influx of external influences, resulting in various transformation. Think of modern Chinese culture like the Yangtze River in its middle course. Countless other rivers, both big and small, have already contributed to its upper stream, turning the water in the middle stream into a complex blend, with just a small percentage coming from the original source. Nonetheless, the river maintains its continuity and integrity. This analogy can be applied to Chinese culture, which is currently experiencing the infiltration of European and American cultures, alongside the adoption of Western Communism. It’s worth noting that the material civilization of the West is a relatively recent development, stemming from scientific discoveries during the later stages of the Renaissance. The Renaissance, in turn, was a reaction to the other-worldly aspects of medieval European civilization. Even the Greek civilization, which served as a source for the Renaissance, was distinct from modern Western Civilization. The way of life during that time closely resembled pre-Industrial Revolution Europe and is not vastly different from present-day China. In the context of our discussion, this emphasizes the multifaceted nature of culture and how it evolves over time, influenced by both internal and external forces. It highlights that the impact of outside influences is not a new phenomenon and that cultures continuously adapt and change, with varying degrees of intensity and violence. The current influx of global influences into Chinese culture is part of this ongoing process.
In India, the potential to comprehend and harmonize both western and eastern perspectives exists. However, in the past, we may not have fully (after colonization) recognized the strength within us. As we move forward, it becomes imperative to foster a university culture that guides our students, leading to the formation of a “community” for the “future civilization”. Through this transformative process, these individuals will emerge as global leaders armed with profound wisdom, guiding the global community towards a more enlightened and spiritually driven form of prosperity, steering away from an overly materialistic approach.
As Dr. G. G. Varma eloquently points out, consider the boat race of Kerala. In this context, the captain of the boat, if he may even the youngest member of the team, possesses an intimate knowledge of every inch and breadth of the vessel. When the captain issues a command, despite the age of the crew members, even a 65-year-old will obey without question, united by one voice. This form of leadership, arising organically, represents the essence of “true hierarchy”. It’s a hierarchy based on roles that reflect our cultural integrity and knowledge, constituting the real hierarchy. This profound perspective should serve as the guiding principle we infuse into our institution—the “big picture” that shapes our future.
In our institution, by nurturing such a culture, we can expect growth and evolution. Institutions can thrive, but they can also undergo transformation. If we insist such a culture ‘they will die for anything’. They may form like a special purpose vehicle, and individual will join and disband organizations for the benefit of whatever purpose which it is. Now it is not like that. It’s crucial to understand that they are not inherently perpetual. The concept of perpetuity should evolve. This transformation is exemplified by some of our leaders who have emerged organically. They demonstrate a unique style of leadership that, over time, can develop into a form of “statesmanship”.
The founding leaders of ISRO laid the foundation for a culture of growth, a strategy characterised by leadership and spirit. They nurtured a culture rooted in a deep understanding, freedom of thought, and the encouragement of young scientists to contribute their ideas to new projects. This freedom of ideation, which originates form a bottom-up approach, along with mentoring leadership that guides from behind, has the potential for significant growth in every institution. ISRO stands as a shining example of this approach. The level of higher consciousness in leadership within ISRO was organically aligned and varied from person to person, drawing from their inner strengths.
In this strategic approach, newcomers are given the freedom to explore and encouraged to study and observe the institution, its various divisions, and ongoing projects. They are allowed to speak their minds without fear and are empowered to contribute their innovative ideas to ongoing projects. Leaders following this approach would often say, “Often, just talk to people,” “Observe”, and “engage in activities that interests you”. The idea is to let them discover the different projects, without assigning specific tasks immediately. About six months are dedicated to creating such a culture and developing individuals to understand the organization’s ethos.
Furthermore, political interference was kept to a minimum from the very outset of ISRO. When Dr. Vikram Sarabhai assumed the position of Chairman, one of his conditions was to avoid unnecessary political meddling and to secure government approval for cultivating a new culture of leadership that would allow every individual within the organization to engage in innovative activities and express their thoughts freely. This principle has been meticulously upheld and continues to contribute to ISRO’s remarkable success on a global scale.
The adoption of such a culture within an organization positions it at the forefront of technological advancements. Back in the 1950s, we had already missed out on numerous technological opportunities. However, even if mistakes are made along the way, people will stand by your side as long as truth and righteousness guide your actions. The transformation of leadership in response to unexpected errors is truly remarkable. In the Siva Sutra, there are verses that describe a knowledgeable person as one from whom both science and poetry emanate. This embodies the essence of – “Sathyam Shivam Sundaram”