Ethical Leadership in the Light of the Bhagavad Gita: Exploring Dharma-Centered Management Practices for the 21st Century

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Autore principale: Aithal, Sreeramana
Natura: Recurso digital
Pubblicazione: Zenodo 2025
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author Aithal, Sreeramana
author_facet Aithal, Sreeramana
contents <p><span>Purpose</span><span>: In an era marked by corporate scandals and ethical shortfalls, contemporary leadership models often prove insufficient in fostering sustained moral integrity. This exploratory paper turns to the Bhagavad Gita, arguing that its timeless dialogue provides a profound philosophical foundation for ethical leadership. The Gita redefines the ethical leader not merely as a compliant rule-follower but as a steadfast individual (Sthita-prajna) anchored in their <em>Dharma</em> or righteous duty. It champions principles of selfless action (<em>Nishkama Karma</em>), decision-making rooted in universal welfare (<em>Lokasangraha</em>), and equanimity (<em>Samatvam</em>) in the face of success and failure. This ancient wisdom shifts the focus from external validation to an internal moral compass, presenting ethical leadership as an intrinsic discipline essential for authentic and sustainable governance in the complex 21st-century business environment.</span></p> <p><span>Methodology</span><span>: In this paper, the exploratory qualitative research method is used. The relevant information is collected using keyword-based search in Google search engine, Google Scholar search engine, and AI-driven GPTs. This information is analysed and interpreted as per the objectives of the paper</span></p> <p><span>Results/Analysis</span><span>: Building on this foundation, the paper explores the practical translation of these principles into "Dharma-Centered Management Practices." It investigates how the Gita's tenets can inform critical modern management areas, including transparent stakeholder communication, ethical supply chain management, and sustainable corporate governance. The concept of <em>Swadharma</em> (one's own duty) is examined as a framework for aligning organizational roles with individual values and societal good, thereby moving beyond profit-centric objectives to a purpose-driven model. This section conceptualizes a workplace where strategic goals are pursued with detachment to personal gain but with utmost attachment to righteous conduct, fostering a culture of trust and collective responsibility.</span></p> <p><span>Originality/ Values</span><span>: To systematically evaluate this paradigm, the study employs a holistic multi-framework analysis. A SWOC analysis identifies key strengths such as enhanced organizational trust and long-term resilience, while acknowledging challenges in cultural interpretation and metric-driven business pressures. An ABCD analysis from stakeholders' perspectives (Employees, Investors, Customers, Community) highlights the framework's ability to improve employee morale, build brand reputation, and strengthen social license to operate. </span></p>
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spellingShingle Ethical Leadership in the Light of the Bhagavad Gita: Exploring Dharma-Centered Management Practices for the 21st Century
Aithal, Sreeramana
Bhagavad Gita, Ethical Leadership, Dharma-Centered Management Practices, Multi-framework Analysis, SWOC analysis, ABCD Analysis, Impact analysis. Organizational Sustainability
<p><span>Purpose</span><span>: In an era marked by corporate scandals and ethical shortfalls, contemporary leadership models often prove insufficient in fostering sustained moral integrity. This exploratory paper turns to the Bhagavad Gita, arguing that its timeless dialogue provides a profound philosophical foundation for ethical leadership. The Gita redefines the ethical leader not merely as a compliant rule-follower but as a steadfast individual (Sthita-prajna) anchored in their <em>Dharma</em> or righteous duty. It champions principles of selfless action (<em>Nishkama Karma</em>), decision-making rooted in universal welfare (<em>Lokasangraha</em>), and equanimity (<em>Samatvam</em>) in the face of success and failure. This ancient wisdom shifts the focus from external validation to an internal moral compass, presenting ethical leadership as an intrinsic discipline essential for authentic and sustainable governance in the complex 21st-century business environment.</span></p> <p><span>Methodology</span><span>: In this paper, the exploratory qualitative research method is used. The relevant information is collected using keyword-based search in Google search engine, Google Scholar search engine, and AI-driven GPTs. This information is analysed and interpreted as per the objectives of the paper</span></p> <p><span>Results/Analysis</span><span>: Building on this foundation, the paper explores the practical translation of these principles into "Dharma-Centered Management Practices." It investigates how the Gita's tenets can inform critical modern management areas, including transparent stakeholder communication, ethical supply chain management, and sustainable corporate governance. The concept of <em>Swadharma</em> (one's own duty) is examined as a framework for aligning organizational roles with individual values and societal good, thereby moving beyond profit-centric objectives to a purpose-driven model. This section conceptualizes a workplace where strategic goals are pursued with detachment to personal gain but with utmost attachment to righteous conduct, fostering a culture of trust and collective responsibility.</span></p> <p><span>Originality/ Values</span><span>: To systematically evaluate this paradigm, the study employs a holistic multi-framework analysis. A SWOC analysis identifies key strengths such as enhanced organizational trust and long-term resilience, while acknowledging challenges in cultural interpretation and metric-driven business pressures. An ABCD analysis from stakeholders' perspectives (Employees, Investors, Customers, Community) highlights the framework's ability to improve employee morale, build brand reputation, and strengthen social license to operate. </span></p>
title Ethical Leadership in the Light of the Bhagavad Gita: Exploring Dharma-Centered Management Practices for the 21st Century
topic Bhagavad Gita, Ethical Leadership, Dharma-Centered Management Practices, Multi-framework Analysis, SWOC analysis, ABCD Analysis, Impact analysis. Organizational Sustainability
url https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18352857