The role of Indian Ethos in Global Organizations

Kaushal Biradar

PES1UG22BB120

Indian Philosophy & Management

Submitted to: Prof. Joel Rajkumar

Abstract:
The integration of Indian Ethos in the dynamic world is quite engaging. It breaks through
cultural barriers and provides the merging of profit of the business and the profit of a man. My
paper shows the impact of Indian Ethos on international organizations. Attributes like ethical
leadership, corporate social responsibility, holistic well being is found in the India Ethos (roots).

Indian ethos instills ideals of inclusion, sustainability, and ethics, transforming the core of
business identity, from the perspective of corporate culture. It reveals the fundamentals of
servant leadership and moral responsibility in the area of leadership, which are expressed in the
age-old Indian philosophical traditions.

But adapting to the Indian Ethos is not easy, cultural adaptations; dilemmas, misinterpretations
etc are all common issues when we try to create a holistic culture.

Indian ethos denotes a new ethical perspective that penetrates throughout the world of business,
rather than only a cultural philosophy. Global organizations are ready to redefine the boundaries
of modern business as they set out on this transformative journey. The Indian ethos' ethical
compass directs them in the direction of a goal that goes beyond simple success, it represents a
journey towards the collective advancement of humanity.

Keywords:

Dharma, Ethos, Principles, Spirituality, Beliefs

Introduction:
Organizations confront unheard-of possibilities and difficulties in the globalized and linked
world of the twenty-first century. A complete and inclusive approach to corporate culture and
values is required as businesses grow internationally and interact with varied markets, cultures,
and stakeholders. A method that has gained recognition in this context is the "Indian ethos."
Rooted in the rich and ancient civilization of India, this ethos includes a profound set of values,
beliefs, and principles that have guided Indian society for ages. It has gained acceptance outside
of the Indian subcontinent in many international organizations, providing ideas and opinions that
cut over racial and geographic borders.

A complex idea with multiple sides, the Indian ethos is created from a rich and varied group of
ethical, intellectual, and spiritual traditions. It has played a crucial role in forming the identity of
the Indian people for thousands of years and is deeply imprinted in our customs daily lives. The
Indian ethos is fundamentally defined by a sense of spirituality, a dedication to moral behavior, a
respect for diversity, and a different perspective of life and work. All these values which are
present have become desirable internationally.

One of the most important things is to understand the principles of Indian Ethos so we can
completely attain knowledge and its recognition in the global environment.

Dharma is one of the important principles. It is known as “duty” or the right way of living. This
idea serves as the foundation for many. Dharma is a foundation for principles of Indian ethics,
directing people and organizations toward honorable behavior in their relationships with other
people, the environment and ourselves.

Another principle of the Indian ethos is nonviolence, or "Ahimsa." It promotes the avoidance or
prevention from damage and violent behavior against all living things. Ahimsa is a fundamental
ethical principle having inputs in dispute resolution, social responsibility, and corporate ethics. It
goes beyond physical violence to include emotional and psychic injury.

Indian culture also values diversity and inclusiveness deeply. India is renowned for its variety in
terms of religion, culture, and language, and its way of life highly values accepting and
appreciating differences. This idea urges businesses to promote inclusive cultures that value
different viewpoints, life experiences, and backgrounds in order to inspire creativity and
innovation on a global scale.
We cannot forget the importance of spiritual wellbeing in India. A lot of the major religions or
beliefs have roots from India. When an employee has spirituality present, they are happier and
have a better work-life balance.

This research paper will look into the influence of Indian culture on global organizations. It looks
to figure out if and to what extent the ethos of India affects the standards, norms, and conduct of
international organizations.

Literature Review:
 1. Singh and Gupta (2018): Their research demonstrates how businesses that incorporate
elements of the Indian ethos into their core values frequently place a high importance on
morality, inclusion, and sustainability. A holistic approach to organizational behavior is
fostered by the incorporation of spirituality and ethical behavior into business culture,
which has a favorable effect on staff well-being and brand reputation.
2. Patel (2019): They stress the importance of servant leadership, which is defined by an
emphasis on the welfare of subordinates and a dedication to morality and social
responsibility. According to Patel et al., this management style may be beneficial in
international organizations and is consistent with Indian ethos values, promoting ethical
decision-making and stakeholder confidence.
3. Kumar & Rao (2020): They talk on how the Indian ethos' holistic viewpoint fits with the
growing business sustainability movement throughout the world. The research looks at
case studies of businesses that have incorporated the values of the Indian ethos into their
sustainability programs to show how these values encourage ethical economic conduct
and environmental care.
4. Gupta and Sharma (2017): Their study demonstrates the importance of employee well-
being, work-life balance, and mental health in firms that adopt Indian culture. According
to Gupta and Sharma, these approaches support greater levels of employee engagement,
job happiness, and talent retention while adhering to the tenets of the Indian culture.
5. Mehta and Desai (2018): They claim that the dharma and ahimsa principles of the Indian
ethos direct organizations toward moral and socially responsible behavior. Mehta and
Desai give case studies of businesses that have incorporated Indian ethos into their CSR
operations, showing how these programs support sustainable development and social
well-being.

Understanding Indian Ethos

The Indian Ethos is a concept which is stuck inside the roots of India. It has significance in the
cultural, philosophical and spiritual backgrounds of India.

It has a huge area of principles and beliefs that have evolved over ages.

Dharma: Dharma establishes a moral and ethical framework for people and society, emphasizing
the significance of carrying out one's obligations in a just and dignified way.

India and its spirituality: A deep spirituality that cuts across all religions lies at the heart of India.
It inspires people to discover their inner selves, look for greater truths, and develop inner serenity
and harmony. This aspect of Indian culture is strongly engrained and has a significant impact on
how people live and conduct themselves at work.

Holistic ideology: Holistic means that there is a belief which parts of it are interconnected and
can be told only with reference to the whole belief. The Indian way of life promotes a
comprehensive perspective on life that recognizes the interconnection of all living things and the
environment. There is a concept called Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, this means, “The world is one
family”.

History and Indian roots: Indian ethos is derived from, Indian history and culture. These
principles have been influenced by ancient Indian books such as the Vedas, Upanishads,
Bhagavad Gita, and other books which are spiritually great.

Modern society: Indian ethos is still relevant in the current world despite its ancient roots. Its
ideals are appealing to people and organizations looking for purpose, moral leadership, and a
harmonious balance between life and work. Indian ethos provides important insights towards
creating sustainability, diversity, inclusiveness, and ethical behavior in the context of
globalization.

Indian Ethos in Organizational Culture

Indian ethos is integrated in the organizational culture. Since organizations go global, they
expand into different regions which make them need to be diverse and allow a path which is
smoother.

Indian ethos gives an ethical approach with a holistic ideology which is desirable by companies.

When corporations try to adopt Indian concepts, the Indian ethos frequently becomes a key
value. This integration needs a serious dedication to making the organization's objective
smoother and vision with the enduring principles of Indian ethos, going beyond simple symbols.

Organizations adopting Indian ethos place a high value on moral values and ethical behavior
while making decisions. Leaders and staff are guided by the idea of dharma to make moral
decisions that advance both the company and society as a whole.

Workplace Spirituality: Employing techniques like meditation, mindfulness, etc can help to bring
a sense of spirituality into the workplace. Employees benefit from feeling balanced and well-
being as a result of this.

Diversity and inclusiveness: The Indian ethos promotes respect for diversity and inclusiveness.
Organizations foster a more friendly and peaceful workplace by reflecting these ideals in their
employment procedures, company culture, and policies.

Organizational Vision: Indian ethos frequently has an impact on the long-term vision of the
business, stressing not just its financial success but also its role in supporting sustainable
development and societal well-being.

Brand and Reputation: Companies that really adopt Indian culture may be seen as being more
moral, socially conscious, and reliable. This may improve their stakeholders' perceptions of their
brand and reputation.

Employee Engagement: A culture with roots in Indian ethos encourages workers to feel that their
work has significance and purpose. Engagement is increased because they are more likely to
sense a connection to the organization's goal and values.

Leadership and Indian Ethos

A distinctive approach to leadership that stresses values, ethics, and a holistic view on corporate
and social well-being may be seen in the leadership styles and principles that are in line with
Indian ethos. The impact of Indian ethos on leadership within international organizations is
examined in this section.

How leadership is seen in Global organizations with regards to Indian Ethos:

1. Ethical behavior: The Indian culture places a high value on morality and ethics, which
logically apply to leadership. Leaders who follow the Indian ethos place a high value on
moral judgment and upright behavior. Leaders are guided by the idea of "dharma," which
is sometimes translated as duty or righteousness, in order to make decisions that are not
only good for the company but also fair and morally just.
2. Diverse perspective: Indian-inspired leaders encourage inclusion and diversity throughout
their teams and organizations. They promote an environment of equality and respect by
appreciating the worth of all viewpoints and backgrounds. For a workplace to be peaceful
and collaborative, inclusivity is considered as crucial.
3. Servant method: A leader who focuses on meeting the needs of their followers and the
larger community is said to practice servant leadership. It is consistent with the Indian
culture's ingrained value of "seva," or selfless service. Servant leaders put their team
members' welfare first and work to empower them, encouraging cooperation and trust
within the workplace.
4. Decision making prospect: Indian-influenced leaders are more concerned with long-term
growth and the welfare of all stakeholders, including staff, clients, and the community,
than they are with short-term benefits.
5. Leaders which keep the well being of employees in mind: Employee well-being is
prioritized by leadership in companies that adopt Indian values. This entails giving
consideration to mental health, personal development, and work-life balance. Leaders
understand that a happy staff is more likely to contribute favorably to the objectives and
long-term success of the company.

The Role of Dharma and Ahimsa in workplace:

Two fundamental principles of the Indian ethos, dharma and ahimsa, have an enormous effect on
workplace culture and procedures. These values, which have their origins in Indian philosophy,
are now widely accepted in the environment of global organizations for their moral and broad
approach to work and leadership.

Dharma in the workplace:

1. Responsibility to Stakeholders: Companies that practice dharma are aware of their

responsibilities to a number of stakeholders, such as staff members, shareholders, clients,
and the community. This larger perspective promotes the welfare of everyone affected by
the organization's actions and goes beyond profit maximization.
2. Conflict Resolution: The Dharma offers a plan for settling disputes in a fair and peaceful
way. The goal of businesses that apply dharma principles to their dispute resolution
procedures is to arrive at fair and equitable resolutions that create peace at work.
3. Making Ethical Decisions: Dharma encourages people to think about the ethical
consequences of their choices and actions. Ethics, transparency, and justice are priorities
for leaders who follow dharma in their dealings with staff members, clients, and other
stakeholders.

Ahimsa in the workplace:

Conflict prevention and resolution: Ahimsa promotes staying clear of pointless arguments and
fights. When conflicts do emerge, groups guided by ahimsa values look for peaceful, nonviolent
solutions in order to promote understanding and collaboration.

Polite conversation: The practice of ahimsa promotes civil and non-violent conversation. This
involves encouraging a culture of helpful criticism, attentive listening, and empathy at work,
which helps to foster stronger interpersonal interactions and a happier workplace.

Prevention of Bullying and Harassment: Ahimsa principles can help stop bullying and
harassment at work. Organizations are being encouraged to create procedures and policies that
support a hospitable work environment for all personnel.

Challenges of Incorporating Indian Ethos

Including Indian Ethos in global organizations has many advantages but there are also some
issues or problems which may need to be resolved.

1. Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptation:

 Cultural misunderstandings or open insult may result from misinterpretation of Indian
ethos values. To guarantee that the Indian ethos is accepted and understood in a way that
respects regional norms and sensibilities, effective communication and training are
required.
 Cultural Variations: Cultural Sensitivity and Flexibility of Indian culture and philosophy,
which may not entirely coincide with the cultural norms and ideals of other nations, are
deeply rooted in Indian ethos. Companies need to be aware of these differences and
modify Indian ethos principles to fit the specific cultural setting.
2. Keeping Local and Global Values in Balance
 Diversity of Values: Global firms frequently work in situations with a variety of cultural
norms, values, and belief systems. Finding common ground and valuing other points of
view can be difficult when attempting to balance Indian beliefs with those of other
cultures.
 Organizations must choose between preserving the originality of the Indian ethos and
adapting it to match local standards. Finding the ideal balance between the two can be
challenging since rigorous preservation may impede assimilation while over-preservation
may weaken the Indian spirit.
3. Conflicts & Ethical Difficulties:
 Ethical Conflicts: The Indian ethos sets great importance on morality and ethics; however
international organizations may run into circumstances where regional laws or practices
conflict with these values. Organizations must make difficult choices while maintaining
their beliefs in order to resolve these ethical dilemmas, which can be difficult to do.
 Competing Interests: Businesses need to balance the occasionally competing interests of
many different parties, including as shareholders, consumers, workers, and governments.
It might be challenging to strike a balance between the various demands of these
stakeholders and the values of the Indian culture.
4. Challenges in Implementation:
  Organizational Buy-In: It might be difficult to get support from all levels of a company
for the Indian ethos. Implementation can be hampered by resistance to change, especially
when it calls for a change in moral and ethical standards.
 Training and Awareness: To make sure that personnel comprehend and uphold the ideals
of the Indian ethos, effective training and awareness initiatives are crucial. Significant
time and money must be spent on this.

Including Indian Ethos in global organizations is not the easiest task. But if the organizations are
willing to learn them, it will be a boon for them.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Indian ethos in global organizations:

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs:

Abraham Maslow created this pyramid of needs known as “Maslow’s hierarchy of needs” in the
20th century.

1. Physical requirements: Basic requirements such as food, water, shelter, rest etc
2. Safety: After their physiological demands are satisfied, people look for protection and
security. This covers psychological safety (such as job stability) as well as physical
safety.
3. Needs for Belonging and Love: After gaining safety, individuals look for relationships,
love, and a feeling of community. Relationships, friendships, and ties to the family are all
involved.
4. Esteem Needs: Esteem needs include the need for respect from others, self-confidence,
and acknowledgement for accomplishments.
5. Self-Actualization: This is our own development. How much we can improve and how
happy, our problem solving and goal accomplishing feel.

Indian Ethos:

Aspects of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs coincide with the Indian ethos, which is firmly
established in Indian philosophy and spirituality:

1. Holistic well-being is highly valued in Indian culture and includes all aspects of one's
physical, mental, and spiritual health. This is consistent with Maslow's assessment of the
underlying nature of physiological and safety requirements.
2. Spiritual progress and self-realization are highly valued in Indian culture, which is similar
to Maslow's idea of self-actualization. Both conceptual frameworks agree that people
want for more meaning and fulfillment than just meeting their fundamental necessities.
3. Indian ethos places a strong emphasis on the value of relationships with others, love, and
community, which is consistent with Maslow's "Belongingness and Love Needs." Both
frameworks are built on the importance of community, relationships, and family.
4. Esteem and Self-Worth: According to Indian ethos, it is important to have high levels of
self-worth, respect for oneself, and acknowledgment, all of which are in line with
Maslow's "Esteem Needs." They both show the social wellbeing of a person
 5. Cultural Differences: Certain qualities of happiness and fulfillment within India may be
stressed more than others depending on the location and cultural background.

Even though Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is part of a psychological process which is part of
human thoughts, Indian ethos is also on a perspective which is similar.

Conclusion:
The ancient wisdom-based Indian mindset has transcended time and space to provide timeless
insights into modern global businesses. It serves as a link between organizations' goals and the
collective consciousness of mankind, leading them in the direction of a convergence of success
and sustainability, profit and purpose.

We have identified obstacles that companies must overcome when they set out to adopt Indian
ethos, including cultural adjustments, moral conundrums, and striking a balance between
national and international principles. But these difficulties are only stepping stones rather than
obstacles. They serve as the testing grounds for organizations to hone their ethics, strengthen
their commitment to morality, and establish themselves as leaders in a world that is changing
quickly. These firms offer as rays of light in a society searching for more responsible and
purpose-driven leaders, doing everything from promoting inclusive workplaces to rethinking
corporate social responsibility.

In conclusion, the presence of Indian ethos in international organizations is evidence of the

persistent search for an ethical and fulfilling existence on the part of humankind. When the
business is more into the profit maximization of the employee rather than the company, the
presence of Indian Ethos is there. Organizations have a chance to make a leadership method
which is rooted into Indian Ethos and culture which can benefit them,

References:
1. Author: Giriraj Kiradoo

Publication year: November 2017

Title: “The Impact of Indian Ethos and Ethical Values in Management and Leadership Role

Source information: researchgate.net

URL:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370004361_The_Impact_of_Indian_Ethos_and_Ethical
_Values_in_Management_and_Leadership_Role

2 Author: Ashish Bahsin

Publication year: March 16th 2011

Title: “Indian retail evolution is mirroring Maslow's Theory of need hierarchy”

Source information: Economic times

URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/indian-retail-evolution-is-mirroring-maslows-
theory-of-need-hierarchy/articleshow/7712378.cms?from=mdr

3 Author Tatwananda, Swami

Publication year 1965

Title Upanishadic Stories and Their Significance

Source information

URL

4 Author: Subhash Sharma

Publication Year: 2018

Title: Indian Ethos, Indian Culture and Indian Management: New Frontiers in Management
Thinking

Source information: Academia.edu

URL:
https://www.academia.edu/81921498/Indian_Ethos_Indian_Culture_and_Indian_Management_
New_Frontiers_in_Management_Thinking

5 Author: M.S Khan

Publication Year: 2016

Title: “ROLE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS ON THE INDIAN

ECONOMY”

Source information: PDF

URL:

6 Author: Nilesh Nandaniya

Publication Year: 2022

Title: Indian Ethos in the Selected Works of R. K. Narayana and Munshi Premchand: A
Comparative Study

Source information: Vidhyayanaejournal

URL: https://www.vidhyayanaejournal.org/journal/article/view/462