Model Institute of Engineering & Technology (Autonomous)

(Permanently Affiliated to the University of Jammu, Accredited by NAAC with “A” Grade)

Strategic Management in the Mahabharata: Applying

Ancient Wisdom to Contemporary Challenges

Understanding the Power of Vision and Mission

At the heart of strategic management lies a clear vision and mission, guiding the
actions and decisions of an organization. In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna
provides Arjuna with a compelling vision of righteousness and duty (dharma)
during the Kurukshetra war. This vision serves as a guiding light for Arjuna,
enabling him to overcome doubts and fulfill his responsibilities as a warrior.

Leveraging Strengths and Weaknesses

Strategic management involves assessing one’s strengths and weaknesses, as well
as those of competitors, to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate threats. In
the Mahabharata, the Pandavas and Kauravas each have distinct strengths and
weaknesses. The Pandavas excel in righteousness, unity, and strategic thinking,
whereas the Kauravas suffer from arrogance, division, and lack of foresight. By
understanding these dynamics, the Pandavas strategically leverage their
strengths to outmaneuver their adversaries.

Building Alliances and Partnerships

Collaboration and alliances play a crucial role in strategic management,
enabling organizations to pool resources, share risks, and achieve common goals.
In the Mahabharata, alliances are forged and broken as various factions seek to
advance their interests. Krishna’s diplomatic efforts to secure alliances for the
Pandavas, such as his negotiations with the Yadavas and the Panchalas, illustrate
the importance of building strategic partnerships to strengthen one’s position.

Adapting to Change and Uncertainty

In an ever-changing environment, flexibility and adaptability are essential

qualities for effective strategic management. The Mahabharata is replete with
instances where characters face unforeseen challenges and must adjust their
strategies accordingly. For example, when the rules of warfare are bent during
the Kurukshetra war, both sides are forced to innovate and adapt their tactics to
survive and succeed.

Ethical Leadership and Integrity

Ethical considerations are integral to strategic management, as decisions and
actions have far-reaching consequences on stakeholders and society. In the
Mahabharata, leaders are constantly tested in their adherence to dharma and
moral principles. Krishna, as the charioteer and advisor to Arjuna, exemplifies
ethical leadership by upholding righteousness and integrity even in the face of
difficult choices.
The Mahabharata serves as a timeless repository of wisdom on strategic
management, offering valuable lessons that remain relevant in today’s world.
By studying the epic’s narratives and applying its principles, contemporary
leaders and organizations can gain insights into effective decision-making,
resource allocation, and stakeholder management. As we navigate the
complexities of the modern business landscape, the Mahabharata reminds us of
the enduring value of strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and the pursuit of
noble goals.

Also read : https://ajmt.apeejay.edu/all-issues/vol-15/issue-1-2/article-1.pdf

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/351547697_Lessons_of_Strategic_Management_from_Mahab
harat_and_Bhagwad_Gita

https://www.caclubindia.com/forum/strategic-management-from-mahabharata-by-pulkit-gupta-
199586.asp

Video links : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0IBbrMzYR0

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1JlT4qXzLqY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od3W4RWfkXo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fmiUr_RBRw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDCrTNyW7yY
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaLB6PEnAnL4fMpDmOGMRBg

Lessons to learn :
Diplomacy and effective communication like Shri Krishna
Think strategically like Bhishma
Ethical leadership like Yudhishthir
Adaptability like Arjun
Teamwork like the Pandavas
Resilience like Draupadi
Tough decision-making like Karna
Networking like Shakuni

Read : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-
style/relationships/work/lessons-from-the-mahabharata-to-
help-survive-corporate-politics/photostory/108014496.cms

https://m.facebook.com/SpiritualBharat/videos/manageme
nt-lessons-from-mahabharat-mahabharata-the-longest-
epic-focused-on-the-w/5751896641499620/