Article Details
  • Published Online:
    July  2025
  • Product Name:
    The IUP Journal of Corporate Governance
  • Product Type:
    Article
  • Product Code:
    IJCG040725
  • DOI:
    10.71329/IUPJCG/2025.24.3.74-103
  • Author Name:
    Rajini Venkatadri and Mohammed Abdul Nayeem
  • Availability:
    YES
  • Subject/Domain:
    Management
  • Download Format:
    PDF
  • Pages:
    74-103
Volume 24, Issue 3, July-September 2025
CSR, India, OCB, Spirituality, TI
Abstract

The paper explores the Bhagavad Gita’s influence on leadership, communication, motivation, and decision-making in organizations. It identifies the lack of effective leadership and management skills as a key reason for organizational failure. The study is based on a literature review and interviews with academicians and practitioners. The findings suggest that the Gita’s self-management concepts are highly relevant to management. These include Stithapragnya (stable mind), Nishkam Karma (selfless action), and Sattva (purity). Interestingly, 84% of corporate professionals surveyed were aware of the Gita, highlighting its potential for leadership development. The study concludes that these self-management concepts significantly impact leadership, communication, motivation, and decision-making processes. Based on these findings, the study proposes a ‘‘Gita Model of Management and Leadership’’, with a focus on self-management and human quality development. This model can be further explored through frameworks like the ‘‘MBA model’’ and ‘‘Negergy-Synergy axis model.’’ Overall, the study suggests that the Gita offers valuable insights for developing effective leadership and management practices.

Introduction

The Bhagavad Gita (Gita) is a sermon given to Arjuna, one of the Pandava princes, by Lord Krishna, where he prescribed the correct ways of leading a good life. It is a holy text of the Hindus.