EASTERN VALUES AND WESTERN THOUGHTS – INTROSPECTION

Every time I listen to someone or may be attend a Seminar – they normally bring in live someone from the Western Philosophy, and this question always and will remain within me – Why is no one referring to Eastern Values and Philosophy, and the simple answer I get is that yes, the Eastern Philosophy is very rich, but they are not in a structured format. It probably is there somewhere as a two-line slokha, or as a story in some of our ancient texts. And probably, like the West, we failed to structure them and say, “Hey – these concepts are already there in the Eastern thought school”

Today, the whole word is buzzing with “Diversity and Inclusion”. I am surprised that this is explicitly said in the “Valmiki Ramayana” by sage Valmiki. When Sri Rama was asked to go to Vanavas (living in the forest) for 14 years – Valmiki describes that scene where the people of Ayodhya follow Lord Rama… and the values of Diversity and Inclusion clearly depicted.

My take here is very simple. If you can think of a person, who probably shifted hats of a Coach, a Mentor or a Consultant – and that too seamlessly – I probably would name Sri Krishna. The distinction is very clear, where he keeps changing his hats, and all theories and competency behaviours that we discuss today – are displayed.

So, please think, look back – and ask yourself, what am I doing to the treasure trove of KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM, which I have within my own home! You name a theory or concept, it is there in our Puranas or Ithihasas. It could be in the form of a story or some anecdote – at the same time, if you ask me is this in a structured format – the answer is NO.

I will just complete this thought with a small example with the theory of Transformational Leadership

 

Participative leader

Throughout the story of Ramayana, we find Rama being a participative leader. He involves initially his siblings and later his lieutenants in all his decision-making process. He does not impose his decision on others due to authority or power. Thus, he creates a positive work atmosphere.

Modest & Humble Leader

Rama was modesty and humbleness personified. Be it eating the tasted fruits offered by Shabari, Inviting Vibishan – Ravana’s brother warmly into his camp, not assaulting Ravana when he is left weapon less etc,

Rama has always lived up to his reputation of being a true leader and was able to spread his positive influence around him

Integrity

Throughout Ramayana we can never find even a single instance where Rama compromised on his integrity even in the most adverse situations.

The instances of Lord Rama, giving up the throne to keep his father’s vow or even making Vibishan the king of Lanka after the war are pointers of his deeply ingrained quality of integrity.

Clarity in Vision

Rama was very clear about what he wanted. The goals and objectives and the way he would go about achieving them was very clear. There was a vision – whether it was getting Sita back or a vision for his empire after his crowning and there was clarity in that vision.

This clarity in vision helped his army to put in their best and fight till they could achieve the vision.

Rama making allies with the Vanar Sena or with Vibishan is also part of his vision and strategy.

Identifying the Potential

Lord Ram understood the powers and capability of Hanuman and the entire Vanar Sena of Sugriva.

He encouraged it, motivated the team and got them to complete what is considered as a near impossible task of building a bridge over the ocean. 

Thus, he was able to delegate responsibilities and choose the right man for the right job.

Belief in his Abilities

Rama never had any doubt that he would not get Sita. He believed in himself, and he believed in his ability to get the best out of the rag-tag army of monkeys.

As a leader it is essential to believe in oneself. If you can’t believe in yourself, your ability, your strengths, then how can anyone else believe in you?

Meticulous Planner

Throughout Ramayana we get glimpses of Rama’s meticulous planning ability – be it from organizing a search party, getting advice from the elders in the team (like Jambavat), trusting the