KRISHNA
THE MANAGEMENT GURU
NARAYANA
18th AMA Week
Inspirations from Lord Krishna
Inspirations from Lord Krishna
05.09.2010
Day of Transcendence Day of Transcendence
Mamata –AMA Centre for Indian Wisdom for Management Mamata –AMA Centre for Indian Wisdom for Management
Krishna — The Management Guru Narayana([email protected]) March 2011
Published by
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EExxcceel l CCrroop p CCaarre e LLiimmiitteedd LLa a OOppaallaa--RRG G LLiimmiitteedd M
Dedicated
with reverence to Guruji
Shri Vidya Prakasha Ananda Giri Swamiji
whose Gita Makarnadam
Gratitude and admiration to
the visionary and the missionary of
Management Week Programmes of
Ahmedabad Management Association
Shri Mukeshbhai Patel
and
Shri. K.K. Nair
because of whose programme on
“Inspirations from Lord Krishna”
this book has come into its soulful existence
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From the President, AMA
From the President, AMA
It gives immense pleasure in bringing out the book "Krishna - The Management Guru”, authored by none other than erudite Shri G. Narayana, whom we all endearingly address as Guruji.
Till recently the Bhagavad Gita was regarded as a symbol of Indian spiritualism. Now, however, it is being realized that Lord Krishna's expositions enshrined in the 18 chapters of the Gita offer a holistic approach to resolve any type of conflict or conflicting interests that managers encounter every day.
Simple and yet evocative, Guruji has brought home the fact that the Gita, though written thousands of years ago, is an outline of management principles to achieve mental equilibrium and to overcome any crisis situation. TheBhagavad Gita can be experienced as a powerful catalyst for transformation, enlightening and leading us towards a harmonious and blissful state of affairs in place of the conflict, tension, poor productivity, and absence of motivation that are commonplace in business and elsewhere. The modern (western) management concepts of vision, leadership, motivation, excellence in work, achieving goals, giving work meaning, decision making and planning, are all discussed in theBhagavad Gita. The difference according to Shri Narayana is that theBhagavad Gita tackles the issues from the grass roots level of human thinking. Once the basic thinking of man is improved, it will automatically enhance the quality of his actions and their results.
Shri Narayana rightly points out that the core lesson to be learnt from Lord Krishna is that ethics whether in business or personal life are vital for
success. A manager needs to be an educator, a guide and motivator for people working with and under him.
We are deeply grateful to Shri Narayana for his vision and hard work in presenting us with a simple treatise on Management Principles as outlined in the Gita.
February 2011 Pankaj R. Patel
Foreword
Foreword
Management has been an ever new and constantly evolving subject since the times human moved from the hunting and gathering stage and made a conscious decision to form societies. It has become more and more significant in the current scenario where there is an immense need for leadership.
In countries where ancient civilizations existed, researchers have started earnestly looking back to their roots and unearthing personalities who contributed to the wisdom of the past. Of the many works in history and mythology the actions and teachings of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavadgita, in particular, has been intensely studied and a plethora of new management concepts highlighted over the last few decades.
Sri Narayana popularly known as ‘Guruji’ in his book “Krishna, The Management Guru” has made some most wonderful and astounding revelations. To Guruji ‘Krishna’ came most naturally (going by his personality both in society and organizations he had worked). His
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thoroughness with the teachings of Krishna including Sri Garga Samhitha, Bhagavatam, Mahabharatam, and Gopala Sahasranaam paints Krishna not only as the divine guru, guide and philosopher, but also as a copious reserve for learning myriad concepts of management.
A major part of the content in the book has been devoted to Bhagavadgita, the essence of Krishna’s teachings .Guruji has elucidated the wisdom of the 18 most precious gems applicable to management and leadership situations. They are: encouraging leadership, present reality, work is the way, seeing the unseen, work and knowledge, mutual support, leadership by example, chaos and emerging leadership, protecting the right, learning
organization, self improvement, value adding leadership, roles and relations, vision, conduct and character, inner power and final point, empowering freedom, inspiring path shower and inspired path walker; all of them are applicable to successful modern management.
A lot of effort has gone into the meticulous selection of 60 quotations from Bhagavadgita which are relevant to the management system. One can see from the following examples how pertinent they in fact are –
Staam stitikshasva Bhaarata
(Meet the change with patience and forbearance)
Abhyutthaanam adharmasya tadaatmaanam srujaamyaham
(when disorder arises, I create myself by assuming responsibility)
Shraddha mayoyam purusho
(A person is known by his dedication and commitment)
The author has brought to light seven prominent areas related to management and leadership education from the Bhagavadgita. They are, transactional analysis, growing to knowing, appropriate internal management, appropriate integrated management, perfect perception, decision process and system, and spirit of management. He has also pointed out the types of leaders and teachers exemplifying the characters of Mahabhararta establishing Lord Krishna as the ultimate guru.
In the concept ‘appropriate internal management’, he outlines the four spaces within, namely, organs, mind, intellect and ultimate as taught by Krishna relating them to physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual areas of management. The author also goes into ‘beyond management’ at many places and offers extended concepts to modern managers like the four processes; nurturing, managing, leading and path making. He elaborates the concepts into 64 glimpses. He explains in a lucid manner the spirit of “Transformation and Transcendence”.
Sri Narayana Guruji has written the book with utmost care and consciousness and also substantiates his thoughtsets with ample illustrations, tables, and flow charts. He makes every attempt to systematically ascertain the actions and teachings of Krishna. He proves how Krishna is a great resource for imbibing the principles of management — management of not only an organization but also the management of the self. The effort of Guruji in bringing out wisdom that is equally essential both to the organization and to the self from the ancient texts is indeed
highly commendable.
I have known Guruji Narayana since longtime and has been greatly inspired by his works (books and articles) most of which are masterpieces. His
unending zeal to serve the society in every possible way is also exemplary.
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I’m confident this book which is the ultimate and the magnum opus on Management will help in the elevation of any and every individual in discharging his roles and responsibilities to reach the heights of transcendence.
All Success.
Foreword
Foreword
3-1-2011 Gamdhinagar KRISHNA SAMHITA KRISHNA SAMHITAWhen Lord Krishna conveyed to Arjuna that I will come in every saga, the expectation of an average reader is that the Krishna will be born with same Pitambar, Murali and Morpanchh.
But Lord Krishna’s promise to Arjuna needs to be understood in proper perspective. What the divine Lord meant was that “I will be available when you feel you are clueless and when rightfully feel defeated”. Thus, there are two stages to discover Sri Krishna within. First, find out Arjuna in yourself. Second, ask the right question to invoke the Lord. And you will have your Krishna discovered. Guruji, in this volume, helps us invent both these stages in our own work environment. He does this with his
innate competent style and srcinality.
‘Krishna’ was a word to me when I first heard it from my father during my childhood. It got duly ensconced with obedient faith. Today, the ‘word’ has become my world with discovered echoes of ages, demystified Wisdom and demonstration of grand awareness. To me, the word Krishna encompasses a larger dimension conveying new meanings at every turn and bend of my unfolding life with many including the Blessed and the blissful becoming Guides and mentors.
One such great person in this enriching journey as guide and co-traveler is G.Narayana or Guruji as he is fondly known. When I first glanced at this book authored by Guruji, my mind instantaneously recalled a beautiful
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Shloka – “Narayanena Swayam” from the sacred Geeta Mahatmya and found myself transported into a state of blissful delight.
This inspirational experience is not new with Guruji’s books. His words flow remarkably like cascades of a waterfall, with all the freshness. And whatever he pens comes with ink of discovery. My ears remember how melodious it was when I first heard the Shloka.
And today, once again, with this delightful discovery of Krishna, I hear Vedvyasa saying,
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Guruji (Narayana) literally takes us to Vibhooti Yoga or the Yoga of Manifestation with a scientific vision and modern management concepts.It is no wonder that Guruji is revered as Management Guru as his words come out of depth of experience and clear directness. With a rare ability to offer interpretation in lucid style Guruji draws parallel between Krishna situation and our own corporate backdrop. His clear style coupled with precision analysis makes his articulations perfectly acceptable and eminently actionable.
He starts with
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This is a wonderful beginning as he reads the Guna-dynamics to understand his (Krishna’s) life chart. Krishna was fathered by Vasudev, who was a prisoner. Krishna killed Kamsa and Chanoor who were power-drunk and Krishna was blissful pleasure to Devaki, his biological mother.Though it appears, that the book begins with introduction of Krishna’s family, Guruji explains how they represent different mindsets. If we look at our contemporary world, we realize that the father of the good is caged, the evil looks powerful (though real strength lies elsewhere), and the mother (though pained) gets the parama anand (the supreme pleasure). This great
shloka, which reads like this,
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The book begins with a situation bestowed by destiny, like family and evil around us. Then, the readers pass through the divine journey of Mahabharata, Bhagavatam, Uddhavageeta and Bhavadgeeta with refreshing interpretation of Guruji to understand the current crisis in our managerial life.
The last shloka speaks of Krishna, the realized manager who is equipped and empowered to undertake the impossible. The Vocalism (Vaachaalam) is the communication revolution with advent of internet whereas crossing mountains by lame is symbolizing the borderless and flattened world. One of the attributes for our disconnect with our own homegrown wisdom is the fear to navigate through the web of grand stories and implied messages in our eternal scriptures. We are lucky that, Guruji brings us these treasures in a capsulated form and in a crisp format. Look how he decodes the message; “Wisdom is Krishna”, “Wickedness is Shakuni”, “Vision is Vyasa”. Guruji is blessed with unique style of communicating with simple but strong statements (Sutra-like).
The Mahabharata is an ocean of stories and sub-stories. Krishna plays different roles in every chapter. Guruji unfolds every Parva with a special management principle demonstrated by Krishna. Perhaps, this is the first time the Mahabharata is so magnificently redrawn as a management book in such a graphic manner.
Guruji demonstrates his own skill of brevity with wide and wonderful canvas of Vedavyasa. As Mahabharata mirrors the human mind with perfection, Lord Krishna appears at every critical decision-making moment to pave way for the righteous to succeed. And Guruji displays an un-erring eye for such crucial moments. He not only captures them vividly
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but expresses them succinctly in phrases, which we as managers are acquainted with. Thus the redefined essence of eighteen Parvas of Mahabharata is brought home to us as a beautiful picture of Krishna as management Guru. Guruji, as a blessed teacher, gives us the Nnavaneetam of Mahabharata.
The modern day manager faces many conflicts. The work environment is polluted with ego driven executives creating stress inside the office mind space. Guruji introduces the characters of Mahabharata in a graphic manner to enable us to imbibe sterling values of life.
In this age of e-mail, e-commerce, e-governance, Guruji paints an e-series of values, like Ethics (Yudhisthira), Energy (Bheema), Excellence (Arjun), Economy (Nakul), Ecology (Sahadev), Effectiveness (Abhimanyu), Efficiency (Ghatotkach), Enlightenment (Draupadi), Ego (Duryodhana), Excess (Dushashan) and Estrangement (Karna).
In modern times, the word ‘supervision’ is replaced by leadership. In a special section, Guruji retells the story of Geeta to facilitate readers in understanding the concept of Work with detachment, self-control, and issues like cosmic consciousness. Guruji’s special chapter on transactional analysis is a superb co-relation with modern theories. The chapter is aptly dedicated to Dr. Eric Berne, the founder of transactional analysis as the Krishna way of knowing the inner-person has been validated by all modern psychologists.
This whole aspect of connecting Krishna to modern day problems is evocatively presented through effective instrument of integration. Integration of our worldview, which is fragmented by Arjun- like misunderstanding and non-understanding of our context. The Indian thought is based on two major Truths,
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(I am that) and¼y±}¢ç„
Guruji brings second truth at the end of every major section. He writes, for example, “This is that”; This (Guru) is that (Govinda). We enter the second decade of 21st century with this new Krishna, and This (Krishna) is That (Krishna), the ultimate Truth (Satyam), the ultimate welfare (Shivam), and the ultimate beauty (sundaram).
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Bhagyesh Jha, IAS
Shri Bhagyesh Jha, IAS,
Shri Bhagyesh Jha, IAS, is a renowned Administrator, leader and an inspired Poet. He has a deep is a renowned Administrator, leader and an inspired Poet. He has a deep understanding and experience of Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavadgita. His poetic works in Gujarati understanding and experience of Vedas, Upanishads and Bhagavadgita. His poetic works in Gujarati are admired and well received and his poetry related to Krishna is wonderfully creative. He is currently are admired and well received and his poetry related to Krishna is wonderfully creative. He is currently Secretary – Youth Affairs, Culture &
Secretary – Youth Affairs, Culture & Sports - Government of Sports - Government of Gujarat. He was honoured twice with theGujarat. He was honoured twice with the “Best Collector” Award. In addition to being I.A.S., his insights in Vedic, Sanskrit, English and Guajarati “Best Collector” Award. In addition to being I.A.S., his insights in Vedic, Sanskrit, English and Guajarati literature contributed for the innovative and value adding approaches in Administration, Culture, Sports literature contributed for the innovative and value adding approaches in Administration, Culture, Sports and Literature.
and Literature.
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A Master’s Master Piece
A Master’s Master Piece
Though not etymologically, the word “Management” can be divided to three segments, viz – MAN, AGE and MENT.
The first segment “Man” implies the subject, which looks at the world around it as a hemisphere, the centre of which ultimately coincides with the subject itself. For example, the King feels that he is the centre of his kingdom while a subject in a remote village, far from the capital, looks at the affair of the kingdom from his own angle and thus places himself at the centre of the kingdom.
The second segment “AGE” implies experience, which goes on varying in any one’s life.
The third segment “MENT” implies something which is very abstract. “Ment”, in English language, is a suffix which converts a verb into a noun, like commencement, commandment, management etc. To be brief, a verb implies a practical act, its noun form implies the idea behind that particular act. In effect, the word “Management” implies the primordial idea behind the series of experiences of an individual, which made him as he is today. The series of experiences of an individual does depend not only on the actions of the individual, but also on the environment, which the individual was thrown into, by some “unknown mighty hand”. Many of the individual actions also basically depend of the environment only. Hence, the primordial idea, referred in the above para, belongs to the “unknown mighty hand” just now referred.
Unless and until we are able to understand this intricate “primordial idea”, the word “management” can not convey any worth while meaning. That is why, the ancient Indian seers designed a four –fold life management system in the form of “DHARMA, ARTHA, KAAMA & MOKSHA”, which constituted their basic platform for all other managements, such as,
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“Student Management” , “Family Management”, “Society Management”, “Administrative Management”, “Business Management,” etc, etc., including “Spiritual Management”. Surprisingly, this platform taught them the technique of correlating all the above managements, which, in fact, is essence of their managemental studies.
The following popular Shaanti Mantra substantiates the above idea
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bhadram karnebhih srunuyama devah bhadram pasyemaksabhir yajatrah sthirai rangai stustuvamstanubhih vyasema devahitam yadayuh.
[Oh Gods (universal forces of creation), May we, with our ears, listen to what is good. May we, whose souls are filled with the spirit of Yagna, with our eyes, behold what is good. May we discharge our duties with the help of our strong and steady organs (which include mind also.) May we utilize our longevity in a way which is beneficial to the Devas (the Universal forces of creation)]
“Yajatraah” and “Deevahitam” are the key words of this Mantra. “Yajatraah” involves the spirit of Yagna, the spirit of offering (see page.79), “DEEVAHITA” involves universal awareness as well as universal equanimity. These principles can be managed if and only if we follow the sequence of PURUSHAARTHAAS, at various levels of life, may be at our living place, learning place, working place, transacting place, fighting place or spiritual–practicing place. As the place changes , the meaning–shade the words Dharma etc., also changes. The intricacies and the nuances of this terminology are known to the lineage of GURUs of this land.
It is heartening that Sri Guruji Gattu Narayana, a revered member of this lineage, has chosen to elaborate on the management teachings of the
The subjects of “Management,” “Personality Development”, “Making Champions” etc., are gaining popularity in recent decades and are being filled up with new and newer terminologies, to make the subject more expensive and extravagant , rather than to make it more realistic and relevant to the “entirity” of life. This aspect of connecting, correlating and cohering each and every management aspect of life is, in my opinion, the additional value of this book in your hands, viz., “KRISHNA: THE MANAGEMENT GURU”.
Only because of this deep rooted value–addition in his heart, Sri Guruji G. Narayan could dive deep into the management meanings, hidden in between the lines of Maha Bhaarata andBhagavadgita.
That is why, he
i) could declare that – wisdom isSri Krishna ; wickedness isSakuni; Vision isVyaasa (page 17)
ii) could analyzeSri Krishna’s role as a teacher, advisor, Guide and Guru (page 41)
iii) could graph the passage of grief from conflict to supreme solution(page 47)
iv) could enlist the guidelines ofSri Krishna (Page 89) and could design a name plate for Him (page 104)
v) could travel beyond management and locate the integrating principle of different 4 way – aspects of life (page 149)
vi) could link the Guna dynamics to the learners and the teachers (page 183)
vii) and could perform many more intellectual and practical feats across the length & breadth of the pages of the book.
For a student, it is a bliss to go through the pages. For a teacher, it is a revelation to peep into the chapters. For a totally ignorant dunce like me, it is a boon to write a foreword to this book.*
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** While expWhile expressing dressing deep thaeep thanks and fenks and feelings of haelings of happineppiness to Prof. Krishss to Prof. Krish na Murty the ona Murty the only alternly alteration thation that could beat could be
suggested by me lies in the last line of penultimate paragraph. Please read it as “For a totally inspired divine devotee it suggested by me lies in the last line of penultimate paragraph. Please read it as “For a totally inspired divine devotee it is a boon to write a foreword for this book.”
The only alteration I could suggest in the entire book lies in its last line. The line says “This (Guru) is That (Govinda). I would prefer to read it as “This (Guru) is That (Naarayana). Only “That” Narayana can create this kind of a master piece.
Jaya Guru Datta
Prof. K.V.Krishna Murty
Chairman, I-SERVE
Institute of Scientific Research on Vedas (I-SERVE) (Recognized by DSIR as SIRO) 11-13-279, Road No. 8, Alakapuri, Hyderabad – 500035; Ph: 040-14035013 E-Mail : [email protected] Web: www.serveveda.org
Professor Krishna Murty
Professor Krishna Murty is a missionary for Indian spiritual values, highly educated in Vedas,is a missionary for Indian spiritual values, highly educated in Vedas, Upanishids, Epics, Vedic Maths, Indian Astronomy, Scriptures of Indian science, wisdom and spirituality Upanishids, Epics, Vedic Maths, Indian Astronomy, Scriptures of Indian science, wisdom and spirituality and also the modern science, mathematics and administration.
and also the modern science, mathematics and administration.
Prof. Krishna Murty is the Chairman and Director General of I-Serve (Institute of Scientific Research on Prof. Krishna Murty is the Chairman and Director General of I-Serve (Institute of Scientific Research on Ved
Vedas) which has) which has made as made severaseveral contributiol contributions in correlns in correlating, inteating, inter-connectr-connecting and inting and integrating egrating the viewsthe views of science and Vedas. He has committed himself to generate awareness about the richness of Indian of science and Vedas. He has committed himself to generate awareness about the richness of Indian culture and heritage including Vedas, Upanishads, epics and stastras.
culture and heritage including Vedas, Upanishads, epics and stastras.
He is closely associated with His Holiness Sri Ganapathi Sacchidananda Swamiji contributing as ‘Seva’ He is closely associated with His Holiness Sri Ganapathi Sacchidananda Swamiji contributing as ‘Seva’ in the areas of education, spiritual awareness and yoga.
in the areas of education, spiritual awareness and yoga.
Shri Krishna Murty is an accomplished, admired and acclaimed author on the subjects of science, Shri Krishna Murty is an accomplished, admired and acclaimed author on the subjects of science, astronomy, vedic mathematics, yoga, vedas and upanishads.
astronomy, vedic mathematics, yoga, vedas and upanishads.
He hails from revered and illustrious “Kuppa” family. His father Shri Kuppa Laxmyavadhaani was a He hails from revered and illustrious “Kuppa” family. His father Shri Kuppa Laxmyavadhaani was a visionary and s
visionary and sage who was aage who was an excellent man excellent master in vedaster in vedas and shasts and shastras. He lateras. He later took the sanr took the sanyas as Sriyas as Sri Janardanananda Saraswatiji who became mentor and guide to many masters and was a path maker Janardanananda Saraswatiji who became mentor and guide to many masters and was a path maker
Ready Reckoner
Ready Reckoner
Om Shri Gajananaya Namah. Jagatah Pitarau Vande Parvati Parameshwarau. Om Shri Sainathaya Namah. Salutations to my parents and Gurus.
Writing a Foreword is a task of great responsibility. This sense of responsibility is heightened when the author is a revered figure like Sh. Guruji Narayana and the subject is none other than Lord Krishna. The fact that Sh. Guruji is my father and this is my first attempt at writing anything of substance (apart from official memos, reports and documents) have only added to the magnitude of the job at hand. Hence it has been my endeavour to approach the whole exercise in a spirit of humility.
Sh. Guruji’s works are all characterized by a painstaking and systematic research on the subject, selection of the most appropriate and relevant sections of the voluminous mass of information available on the subject and lucid presentation and creativity in bringing out hitherto untouched aspects. All these features are amply seen in the present work “Krishna the Management Guru”. The final output is not a mere book but a comprehensive manual on Krishna, the management Guru which can be used by management practitioners, students , researchers and Gurus. To most of us groomed in the Western Analytical Methods of problem solving, the “natural way” is to present the elements first followed by the conclusion. Sh. Guruji on the other hand presents the essence/conclusion right at the beginning. Thus at the very beginning of the work, we have:
“Vasudeva Sutam Devam, Kamsa Chanura Mardanam Devaki Paramanandam Krishnam Vande Jagad Gurum” The whole sum and substance of Krishna – the Management Guru is contained in this one verse. Guruji’s interpretation of this verse of how Krishna – the Universal Guru used Guna Dynamics to deal with people of different natures is very creative and srcinal.
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The importance of this verse in context of the subject can also be brought out by looking at the verse in an event oriented manner. The four important people in the life of Krishna who later became the Jagad Guru are Vasudeva and Devaki (his parents), Kamsa (His maternal uncle and adversary since birth) and Chanura, a formidable wrestler. Krishna was separated from
his parents at birth, had to deal with Kamsa who was out to kill him by hook or crook and fight with and defeat Chanura when he was a mere boy. It was an intense struggle for survival since birth which was the
preparation ground for the future “Jagad Guru”.
Thus we realize that Krishna’s teachings were not mere theoretical concepts but backed by practical hands on experience.
Now we come to the works on Krishna selected by Sh. Guruji in order to bring out the various facets of the personality of Krishna, the Management
Guru. While the Srimad Bhagavatham and Mahaabharata are obvious candidates for any work on the subject , Garga Samhita and Gopal Sahasranaam are less obvious choices and this is where in my humble view the author’s depth of understanding of the subject reveals itself. The Garga Samhita brings out the personality of Krishna as the mystic lover. While most of us would think of the strategies adopted by Krishna or the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, not many would focus on this personality aspect of the Jagad Guru. However a true Guru has to understand and empathise with people. It takes an affectionate heart to deal with people successfully. Garga Samhita fully brings out the personality of the “affectionate Krishna”. No wonder Narsinh Mehta, a great Krishna Bhakta describes a true devotee of Lord Krishna as “Je Peed Parayi Jaane Re” (One who understands the pain of fellow human beings). The Krishna of Garga Samhita and Gopal Sahasranaam is “Gopala” (One who tends cows). Again it would need a compassionate nature to deal with and look after animals. Most of us know that it was Krishna’s skills as a charioteer which saved Arjuna on many occasions during the Mahaabharata war (where Krishna
behaviour would have been an important competency for mastering the art of Ashwa Hridaya (Science of driving Chariots).
The aspect of selection of the most appropriate sections of the selected works has been commented upon. The best illustration of this is the chapter on “Krishna as Management Guru in Mahaabharatam”. Sh. Guruji picks up a verse from each parva (section) of the great epic and explains how it brings out a particular facet of Krishna – The Management Guru. Indeed
these verses also clearly suggest the methods which management gurus and practitioners can adopt.
Thus from the Drona Parva, we have :
“Sakundala Sindhupate Prabhanjana Sutaanuja Utsange Paatayasvaasya Viddhakshatrasya Bhaarata” Which Sh. Guruji translates as
“Arjuna! Be careful let not the head of Jayadratha fall on earth. With the help of your arrows, take it away and let it fall on the lap of Vriddhakshatra, the father of Jayadratha”
This verse is from a critical stage in the Mahaabharata. The event is the slaying of Jayadratha (Sindhupati, the king of Sindh). Time is of the essence since Arjuna has only a fraction of a moment to severe the head of Jayadratha. Lord Krishna, the Guru has even less time to communicate
how he wants the task to be executed. The instructions are precise and clear. More importantly, Krishna addresses Arjuna as “ Prabhanjana Sutaanuja”, which certainly is not a commonly used epithet for Arjuna. Everywhere in the Mahaabharata, Arjuna is addressed as “Bharata” (Descendent of the Bharata race), Partha (Son of Pritha, Kunti), Pandava (Son of Pandu etc). But here Krishna chooses “Prabhanjana Sutaanuja”. Prabhanjana is the “Stormy Wind”. The suta of “Prabhanjana” (Son of the powerful wind God is Bheema) and Prabhanjana sutaanuja (Younger Brother of the Son of the Wind) is the younger brother of Bheema, i.e. Arjuna. By addressing Arjuna in this manner, Lord Krishna wants to convey
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the power with which he wants Arjuna’s arrow to carry the head of Jayadratha to Vriddhakshatra who was engrossed in meditation quite a
distance away from the battlefield. Again Krishna uses the words “Sakundala Sindhupate” in the beginning of the verse. The word “Sakundala” is used to bring to Arjuna’s notice the heaviness of the target, ornamented as it was with heavy gold earrings (Kundalas) and other paraphernalia like the Crown etc.
A fantastic verse indeed to highlight the communication skills required of a good Management Guru.
Again the ideas of Krishna and events from the Mahaabharata which Sh. Guruji chooses to communicate about Krishna – The Management Guru are worth mentioning. Some of the ideas mentioned are :
• Idea of Arjuna marrying Subhadra • Idea regarding Jarasandha
• Idea of informing Karna that he is the eldest Pandava
• Advising Arjuna to ensure that the head of Jayadratha falls on the lap of Jayadratha’s father
We as management practitioners know about the value of information. Imagine having on board of directors a Management Guru who knows in detail the background of all business leaders, the products which competitors are about to introduce in the market – the strengths and weaknesses, the financials of the competitors and so on and so forth. Judged from this angle, Krishna was a remarkable Management Guru. He seemed to know in detail the history and background of every king, their weak spots, how they could be killed, the boons they had, the secret weapons they possessed, how one could nullify these weapons and so on.. Krishna must have been very assiduous in collecting this mass of information. No wonder, Arjuna having availed of Krishna’s services for marrying Subhadra chose Krishna as a non – combatant advisor over an entire army.
is an important episode in the Mahaabharata. The fourteenth day of the war (the day on which Jayadratha was killed) was the day when the battle was the fiercest with both sides giving their best and was a turning point of the war. This event itself throws a lot of light on the methods of Shri Krishna – The Management Guru.
When Arjuna in an emotional frame of mind takes an oath to kill Jayadratha, Krishna first rebukes him for what he (Krishna) terms as an “act of rashness and recklessness”. In a remarkably short time, Krishna has information gathered with the help of “spies” about the reactions in the Kaurava camp. He has exact information on the steps taken by the Kauravas to obstruct Arjuna including information on the battle array formations planned by the enemy, the exact positioning and task entrusted to the various generals of the Kaurava camp and so on. This is conveyed to Arjuna in a very precise manner so as to leave no doubt about the magnitude of the task. Shri Krishna then retires to his tent and enters into Yoga. In a dream state, Krishna takes Arjuna to the Himalayas to get the blessings of Lord Shiva (Mahadeva) and also makes Arjuna remember all the weapons which he has in his possession. The whole process as described in the Mahaabharata should serve as an object lesson for all professionals on how to approach major projects.
Coming to Sh. Guruji’s presentation of ideas and the creativity in bringing out hitherto unexplored aspects, I would definitely borrow a terminology used by an eminent Guru the late Dr. Mayank Dholakia in his foreword to Sh’ Guruji’s “Excellence in Education” on the SSC (Square–Star–Circle) configuration method of presentation which in Dr. Dholakia’s words is unique to the “Narayana style of presentation”. This book too is replete with such diagrams and conceptual maps used by Sh. Guruji.
In the context of the present work, I would like to pick up some points on the chapters on the Bhagavad Gita to elaborate on some aspects of the presentation methods used by Sh. Guruji.
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If one thinks about it, the Gita itself is a small part of the Mahaabharata. The 18 chapters of the Gita are actually chapters 25 to 42 of the Bheeshma Parva of the Mahaabharata, with no specific indicators to distinguish it from the main body of the epic . Indeed it is the efforts at re-classification and naming of the chapters and presentation / elaboration of concepts by a series of learned commentators starting with Adi Shankaracharya, which has established the Gita as an independent work in its own right. Sh. Guruji carries this further and uses his own unique style of presentation to expound many of the insights of the Gita.
As Sh. Guruji points out, by choosing the first word “Dharma” from the first verse of the Gita (Dharma Kshetre...) and the last word“Mama” from the last verse (... Dhruva Neeti matir Mama), the message of the Gita can be interpreted as“Mama Dharma” (My Dharma – My Responsibility – My Duty).
Further, Sh. Guruji explains the teachings of the Gita as a process of transformation from “Grief” to “Liberation”. Thus the means of moving from “Grief” to “Liberation” is discharge of “one’s own responsibility”. The diagram on page 58 is an excellent example of “at a glance” explanation of the Gita. Thus we actually visualize the Gita as a process of transformation from “Humanity” to “Divinity”.
While the categorization of 18 chapters into 3 sets of 6 chapters each has been done by many commentators, Sh. Guruji presents these as being in 3
different planes. These three planes are part of a “hyperspace” which encompasses both “humanity” and “divinity”. By drawing a line (Geodesic would be a mathematically more correct word , I guess) which divides this hyperspace into two equal parts, each of which represents humanity and divinity, one can actually see how the “area” covered by “divinity” increases progressively through stages 7 to 12 (chapters 7 to 12 of the Gita). This is one example of how Sh. Guruji puts to use his Mathematical skills (which
One more noteworthy aspect is the selection of English equivalents of Sanskrit words. We as Indians are familiar with the difficulty involved in picking up the correct equivalent of Sanskrit/Hindi words.
Thus Guruji mentions step 1 in the transformation process as “Grief”. Chapter 1 of the Gita is actually “Arjuna Vishada Yoga”. The key is to find out the most accurate English equivalent of the Sanskrit word “Vishada”. Thus we have translations like “Yoga of Despondency of Arjuna”/ “Arjuna’s Despair”/“Sorrow of Arjuna”.
Shri V.S. Apte in his Sanskrit – English Dictionary gives out the following possible meanings of the word “Vishada”
• Dejection • Sadness • Depression of Spirits • Grief • Sorrow • Disappointment • Despondency • Despair • Languor • Drooping state • Dullness • Stupidity
Out of the many available meanings, the word picked up for the first step in the transformation process is “grief.” This word fits in very well in the process chart. However, its appropriateness in the context of the Gita runs deeper. As the learned modern commentator of the Gita, Krishna Chaitanya puts it, the philosophy of the Gita is rooted in existentialism (i.e. a philosophical theory which emphasises the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will – Reference : Concise Oxford English Dictionary). “Existential” is something relating to the existence. All of us (irrespective
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of whether we are “Bright or Dull”, “Happy or Sad”, “Cheerful or Depressed / Despondent”) are faced with existential crises or existential dilemma in one form or the other which arise out of the mundane realities of day to day existence. Arjuna was faced with one such dilemma of having to kill his near and dear ones and we can all relate to his wailings as mentioned in the first chapter of the Gita as an outburst arising of this dilemma. “Grief” seems to capture this outburst most aptly. Certainly all of us can identify with “Grief” as an emotional outburst arising out of an existential crisis. Incidentally the Concise Oxford English Dictionary gives out the meaning of grief as intense sorrow especially caused by someone’s death (and it was the prospect of imminent death of near and dear ones which upset Arjuna).
Again we come to step 10 of the process which is mentioned as “Glimpses”. This too fits in very well in the overall process chart. Chapter 10 of the Gita is named as “Vibhuti” Yoga. Once more, we turn to Shri V.S. Apte’s dictionary which lists out the following possible meanings for the word “Vibhuta : • Arisen • Appeared • Manifested • Great • Mighty
The word “Vibhuti” has been given the following possible meanings • Might • Power • Greatness • Prosperity • Dignity • Exalted rank
• Riches
• Superhuman Power
No mention at all of “glimpses”. Also “Vibhuti Yoga” is normally translated as “Yoga of Divine Splendour” / “Yoga of Divine Manifestations”. The question is, how does one justify the use of the word “glimpses” for the tenth stage (Vibhuti Yoga) in the process chart.
The correct justification in my opinion is to be found in verse 40 of the Vibhuti Yoga which reads:
“Na Antah: Asti Mama Divyanaam Vibhutinaam Parantapa Esha Tu Uddeshatah: Prokto Vibhuteh : Vistaro Mayaa”
This in the English Commentary of the Gita by Swami Chidbhavananda is translated as :
“There is no end of my divine manifestations, O harasser of foes; this is only a brief exposition of my glories”
The key connection is in the word“Uddeshatah”.One of the meanings given in the Sanskrit – English Dictionary is as under:
• The enunciation of a thing by its name (which is to be further discussed and explained).
In light of the above meaning of “Uddeshatah”, one can see that “glimpses” fits in very well. (The lord has given only a glimpse of his divine splendour which is to be discussed and explained at further length). A fantastatic example of how Sh. Guruji’s understanding transcends the limitations imposed by conventional grammar to hit upon the right word to be used in a particular context.
Further, what is to be noted is that while Sh. Guruji is rightly known for his deep understanding of Indian scriptures and the Indian ethos of Management, his knowledge and understanding of the “Modern” Western methods of management are equally profound. Thus we have the
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Shri Pradeep Gattu
Shri Pradeep Gattu is a Master of Business Administration and the Vice President (Exports) in a is a Master of Business Administration and the Vice President (Exports) in a reputed value-centred business organisation. From childhood he learnt Vedas and Upanishads and reputed value-centred business organisation. From childhood he learnt Vedas and Upanishads and deeply studied Ramayana, Mahaabharata, Bhagavata and Bhagavad Gita and is a voracious reader. deeply studied Ramayana, Mahaabharata, Bhagavata and Bhagavad Gita and is a voracious reader.
comparision of the Guna theory interpreted in the light of the Geeta with the Transactional Analysis (TA) concept of Dr. Eric Berne as yet another example of lucid presentation and creativity in developing new ideas. Summing up, it is with a sense of confidence about the immense utility of this Krishna Management Guru ready reckoner and manual that I conclude this foreword.
If I have been able to do some justice to my assigned task of penning a Foreword to the work of such an esteemed personality, this is to be attributed to divine grace rather than any inherent merit in me. As is mentioned at the end of the work :
Mookam Karoti Vaachalam Pangum Langhayate Girim Yatkrupa Tamaham Vande Paramaananda Madhavam
“Salutations to that Lord Krishna, the very personification of Supreme Joy and Lord of Prosperity, by whose grace the dumb can speak and the lame can cross mountains” !!
Shri Krishnaarpanamastu.
23rd October 2010 Pradeep Ghattu
Contents
Contents
From the President, AMA v
Foreword - Shri D. Sridhar Babu, Minister for Higher Education, vii NRI, AP Affairs, Government of Andhra Pradesh
Foreword - Shri Bhagyesh Jha, IAS xi
A Master’s Master Piece - Prof. K.V. Krishna Murty xvii
Ready Reconer - Shri Pradeep Ghattu xxi
II.. KKRRIISSHHNNA A — — TTHHE E MAMANNAAGGEEMMEENNT T GGUURRUU 33
1.A Universal Teacher 5
2. Krishna 7
3. Krishna as a Management Guru 12
4. Mahaabharata 16
5. Krishna as a Management Guru in Mahaabharatam 23
6. Bhagavad Gita 43
7. Krishna’s Teachings in Gita as a Management Guru 70
8. Krishna’s Teachings in Anu Gita 95
9. Krishna’s Teachings in Uddhava Gita 98
10. Krishna in Gopala Sahasranaam 102
IIII.. KKRRIISSHHNNAA’’S S TTEEAACCHHIINNGGSS: : MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT 110077 AND LEADERSHIP APPLICATIONS
AND LEADERSHIP APPLICATIONS
1. Grief to Liberation - Story of Gita 109
2. Glories of Excellence in Gita 121
3. Transactional Analysis: Revisited and Revised 123
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4. Growing to Knowing: Four Facets of Personality 131
5. Appropriate Integrated Management 136
6. Appropriate Internal Management 143
7. Beyond Management 153
8. Imposing to Accepting - Decision Process 170
9. Perfect Perception 176
10. Three Leaders and Three Teachers 188
11. Being Divine — Man, Tiger, Monkey, Bear 196 12. System for Success — Siddhi Yoga 204
II
IIII.. KKRIRISHSHNNAA——TTHE HE UNUNIIVVERERSSAAL L ININTTEGEGRARATTINING G CCOONSNSCCIIOOUSUSNENESS SS GUGURURU 220077
IIVV.. KKRRIISSHHNNAA——AAN N EENNAABBLLIINNG G SSPPIIRRIITT 221177
Abbreviations 220
References 221
Gratitudes 223
P
ranams and respects to all elders, goodwill and friendship to all colleagues, love and best wishes to all young ones.MANAGEMENT WEEK MANAGEMENT WEEK
It is a great occasion of happiness and joy for me to be with you all for this 18th Management Week on a wonderful subject of Inspirations from Lord Krishna.
The AMA Week every year, connects more than a thousand and five, now six, seekers of Spirit of Excellence for the shining celebration of love and light. For this divine process, let us give our admirations and gratitudes to AMA, Mamata-AMA Centre for Indian Wisdom for Management, Mukesh Patel-AMA Centre for Public Speaking and Personality Development, Shri Pankajbhai Patel and members of Management Committee, Shri
Mukeshbhai Patel, Shri K.K.Nair and all members of Management Association. “Management Week” of AMA is a modern “Saptaham”, a festival of knowledge, ideas, wisdom and inspiration.
The visionary and missionary combination of our beloved Shri Mukeshbhai and Shri K.K. Nairbhai are to be admired and thanked for connecting consciousness permeating within us for a week and also for a year.
INSPIRATIONS FROM LORD KRISHNA INSPIRATIONS FROM LORD KRISHNA
This is a wonderful subject, especially during this time of celebration of Gokulashtami throughout India. Krishna is the “Paripoornaavataar” the completely perfect representation of Supreme divinity.
During this week “Shanmukhi” (Six facets) darshan of: “Krishna the Master Strategist”
“Krishna the Management Guru” “Krishna the Mystic Lover” “Krishna the Yogic Philosopher”
“Krishna the Visionary Leader” and “Krishna the Divine Artist”
are offered to us.
Lord Krishna is a strategic, mystical, loving, yogic, philosophical, visionary, leading, divine and artistic Master Management Guru, a “Sadguru” and a “Jagadguru”.
II
KRISHNA — THE MANAGEMENT GURU
KRISHNA — THE MANAGEMENT GURU
11.. A
A Uni
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et us start with a prayer to the Universal Teacher: “Vasudeva Sutam Devam Kamsa Chaanura MardanamDevaki Paramaanandam Krishnam Vande Jagad Gurum”
K.A. 1 K.A. 1
“Let us bow to Krishna the divine son of Vasudeva, the punisher of Kamsa and Chaanura and the cause of supreme joy of Devaki and who is a “Jagadguru”, the universal teacher”.
Wonderful! In this one verse, the Universe of Krishna’s nature is well covered.
There are four people mentioned in this verse. Chaanura was a boxer whom Krishna physically defeated and decimated in a wrestling contest at Mathura. Chaanura was a“Tamasik”, an ignorant physical and bodily oriented person.
Kamsa the king was the cruel uncle of Krishna, who was intoxicated with position, power and wealth. He imprisoned his own father Ugrasen. Kamsa was an extremely egoistic person who lived in constant fear of Krishna in his mind, whom Krishna defeated first through mind management and then through a duel at Mathura. Kamsa was a“Rajasik”, a mind and an ego oriented selfish person.
A Universal Te A Universal Teacheracher 55
Vasudeva was the father of Krishna. He was a humble, gentle and a noble person who treated even Kamsa the tormentor with persuasion and gentleness inspite of the troubles he faced in jail and life. Vasudeva was such a noble person that he was blessed with the grace of having Krishna, the very divinity as his child. Vasudeva was a“Sattvik”, a noble, gentle, thoughtful and a knowledge oriented person.
Devaki, the blessed mother of Krishna was a pure, noble, loving,
compassionate person, who bore the pain of seeing her seven children being killed by Kamsa as soon as they were born. She was the first to see Krishna in his full splendour as Lord Vishnu as soon as he was born. She was a seer, a“Gnaani” person.
So Krishna boxed the “Tamasik”, eliminated the “Rajasik”, honoured the “Sattvik” and brought Supreme Bliss to “Gnaani”.
Thus Krishna demonstrated to the whole universe how to deal with Tamasiks, Rajasiks, Sattviks and Gnaanis covering all kinds of people. Tamas, Rajas, Sattva and Gnaana are four “Gunas” which represent the characteristics of nature covering all types of people.
Thus Krishna is a “Jagad Guru” who demonstrated and later taught the Management of Guna dynamics.
Krishna is a “Jagad Guru” and “Jagad Nirvahana Guru”, the Universal Guru and the Universal Management Guru.
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rishna as a mystic lover, divine artist, visionary leader, master strategist, yogic philosopher, management and spiritual Guru had four phases in his life covered by four books which describe beautifully and vividly about his different activities, abilities, achievements, relations, attainments, thoughts, roles, contributions, guidance, philosophies and teachings.The four outstanding works describing Sri Krishna are Sri Garga Samhita, Srimad Bhagavatam, Sri Mahaabharatam and Sri Gopaala Sahasranaam.
KRISHNA IN SRI GARGA SAMHITA KRISHNA IN SRI GARGA SAMHITA
Sri Garga Samhita attributed to Garga Maharshi is of medium size book containing 10 chapters (10 khandas) titled Goloka Khanda, Brindavana Khanda, Giriraj Khanda, Dwaaraka Khanda, Mathura Khanda, Dwaaraka Khanda, Vishwajit Khanda, Balabhadra Khanda, Vignaana Khanda and Ashwamedha Khanda. This wonderful book mainly describes Brindavan, Mathura and Dwaaraka as the important places of activities of Krishna with Brindavan being the place of prime importance.
In Garga Samhita, the intensive and mystic love between Krishna and Radha and Gopis are narrated in a very exciting and joyful manner. Whereas Radhaji is not at all mentioned in Bhagavatam or Bharatam, while she is the full spiritual divine love partner in Garga Samhita.
Krishna the mystic lover shines here.
Krishna Krishna 77
KRISHNA IN BHAGAVATAM KRISHNA IN BHAGAVATAM
Srimad Bhagavatam is attributed to Maharshi Veda Vyaasa and also is of medium size containing 12 chapters (Skandhas) with subjects of different aspects of tAvataars of Lord Vishnu. Chapters from 1 to 9 cover the background of end the of Mahaabharata War, the story of Parikshit and
Shuka Maharshi and different avatars of Lord Vishnu including Yagna, Kapila and Rishabha and seven main Avataars as Matsya, Koorma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vaamana, Parashurama and Sri Rama.
Chapters 10 (2 parts), 11 and 12 contain the outstandingly wonderful stories of Sri Krishna and his activities at Brindavan, Mathura and Dwaarka; his marriage with Rukmini, Satyabhama, Jambavati, Kaalindi, Mitravinda, Naagnajiti, Bhadra, Lakshana and other 16000 women. These are inter-mingled with stories of Pandavas at Hastinapura, Indraprastha and other places. Here Krishna is the protector of devotees, hero of many, reorganizer of Mathura, builder and reorganizer of Dwaarka, guide of Pandavas, saviour and improver of many people in distress and is also the divine philosopher and spiritual Guru through his teachings to Uddhava. The complete picture of Krishna as a mystic lover, divine artist, management practioner, master strategist, visionary leader, yogic philosopher and spiritual guru is covered in Srimad Bhagavatam.
Krishna as a lover, protector, leader and management practioner shines here.
KRISHNA IN MAHAABHAARATAM KRISHNA IN MAHAABHAARATAM
Sri Mahaabharatam authored by Maharshi Veda Vyaasa is magnum opus of 18 chapters (parvas) and 1,00,000 verses. The eighteen chapters are: 1. Adi parva (beginnings)
2. Sabha parva (Assembly) 3. Aranya parva (Forest)
Krishna in Upanishads
Krishna in Upanishads
First mention of Krishna is in ancient Chandogyopanishad of Samaveda, which is First mention of Krishna is in ancient Chandogyopanishad of Samaveda, which is around 3000 years old much before the writing of Garga Samhita, Bhagavatam around 3000 years old much before the writing of Garga Samhita, Bhagavatam and Mahaabharatam.
and Mahaabharatam.
Ghora Aangirasa, the son of Sage Angirasa taught the science of Purusha Yagna Ghora Aangirasa, the son of Sage Angirasa taught the science of Purusha Yagna (Human life as a contributing endeavour) to Krishna the son of Devaki.
(Human life as a contributing endeavour) to Krishna the son of Devaki.
“Taddhaitat Ghora Aangirasah “Taddhaitat Ghora Aangirasah Krishnaa
Krishnaaya ya Devaki Putraaya Devaki Putraaya Uktvaa Uvaacha Apipaasa Eva” Uktvaa Uvaacha Apipaasa Eva”
Ch. U. III. 17.6 Ch. U. III. 17.6
“Ghora Aangirasa imparted this meditation that was such to Krishna, son of Devaki “Ghora Aangirasa imparted this meditation that was such to Krishna, son of Devaki after listening which he became free from thirst.”
after listening which he became free from thirst.”
Thus Krishna is an upanishadic personality. Krishna the Jagadguru himself has at Thus Krishna is an upanishadic personality. Krishna the Jagadguru himself has at least three known Gurus — G
least three known Gurus — Ghora Aangirasa, Sandeepani and Upamanyu Maharshi.hora Aangirasa, Sandeepani and Upamanyu Maharshi. Every great Guru is also a great learner. Krishna practiced what he learnt. His life is Every great Guru is also a great learner. Krishna practiced what he learnt. His life is an example of a contributing endeavour — a yagna.
an example of a contributing endeavour — a yagna. Vaa
Vaa susu dede vovo papa nini sshaha d, d, GoGo papa la la PuPu rrvva a TaaTaapipi nyny upup anan iishsh adad , , GoGo papa la la UtUt ttarar aa TTaapinyupanishad, Krishnopanishad, Kaapinyupanishad, Krishnopanishad, Kali Santaranopanishad are some of the otherali Santaranopanishad are some of the other upanishads proclaimed after the time of Krishna.
upanishads proclaimed after the time of Krishna.
5. Udyoga parva (Embassy)
6. Bheeshma parva (General Bheeshma) 7. Drona parva (General Drona)
8. Karna parva (General Karna) 9. Shalya parva (General Shalya)
10. Sauptika parva (War on sleeping ones)
Krishna Krishna 99
11. Stree parva (Wailing women) 12. Shaanti parva (Peace after war) 13. Anushaasana parva (Governance) 14. Ashvmedha parva (Conquering) 15. Ashramavasa parva (Hermitage) 16. Mousala parva (End of Yadavas)
17. Maha prasthanika parva (Great exit) and 18. Swargarohana parva (Ascent to heaven).
Here Krishna shines as a visionary leader, master strategist, yogic philosopher and a world class plus management guru, leadership guru, wisdom guru and spiritual guru.
In Garga Samhita, he is a master of love, in Srimad Bhagavatam he is a master of care and protection and in Mahaabharatam he is a master of visionary and strategic leadership and a management Guru.
In Agnipurana, the role of Krishna is described in a very wonderful manner: “Bharatam Sampravakshyaami
Krishna Mahtmya Sangraham”
Agni Purana. Agni Purana. XIII.1XIII.1
“Now let me speak about Mahaabharata, which is the summary of Greatness of Krishna”.
Greatness of Krishna as a management guru shines fully bright in Mahabhaarata.
KRISHNA IN SRI GOPALA SAHASRANAAM KRISHNA IN SRI GOPALA SAHASRANAAM
Sri Gopala Sahasranaam is the shortest of the four books referred to and contains only 18 pages and around 200 verses. It is a part of Sammohana Tantra. There are thousand wonderful names of Krishna related to the aspects of:
1. Gokul 2. Radhakrishna 3. Vishnu 4. Avataar 5. Keshava Naamas 6. Rivers 7. Shiva 8. Gods 9. Beauty 10. Vedapurusha 11. Parabhrahma and
12. Bhakta Rakshaka (Saviour of the devoted).
In Gopala Sahasranaam, Krishna is a mystic lover, divine artist, master strategist, visionary leader, a management jagadguru and a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, philosopher, guide,
teacher, God personified and a supreme being.
Thus Krishna is some thing to everyone and everything to someone.
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3.
3. Kr
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a as a Man
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uru is the combination of “GA” and “RA”. “GA” is darkness and “RA” is the removal of darkness. Guru is the remover of darkness with his light. Knowledge, wisdom, ideas and solutions are the conscious light of a Master. Krishna from his childhood till the final day was the remover of darkness.He removed doubts, question marks, “ifs”` and “buts”, hesitations, uncertainties and gloom of darkness whenever they occurred through the light of thinking, knowledge, analysis, creativity and through brightness of his actions.
He removed the darkness of gloom in Brindavan through his actions of destroying the dangerous demons Pootana, Shakatasura, Trinavarta, Vatsasura, Dhenukasura, Kaaliya serpent, Keshi, Vyomasura, Shankhachuda, Chanura, Kamsa and others.
He removed the doubts of Gopaas about his ability to face Indra by lifting Govardhan by his little finger. He defeated all kings to marry Rukmini. He removed the doubts and allegations about Shyamantaka diamond by searching for the jewel and bringing it back from the jaws of Jambavan. He defeated Banasura and other kings who opposed him.
After killing Kamsa, he himself did not become the king but ensured that Ugrasen became the king. He became an honoured corporate administrator. He overcame many negative forces like Jarasandha, Rukmi, Shishupal,
He protected those who depended on him and won over those who confronted him. He nurtured and trained many outstanding leaders. Thus by the time of Mahaabharata, he was a proven and an excellent nurturer,
manager, leader and pathmaker. Krishna himself stated in Bhagavad Gita the three qualities of an effective teacher and guide.
“Tadviddi Prani Paatena Pariprashnena Sevayaa Upedekshshyanti Te Gnaanam Gnaani Naa Tattva Darshina”
B.G. IV.34 B.G. IV.34
“You may know this supreme knowledge from the seers who are knowledgeable, experienced and have communication ability by
approaching them with respect, proper enquiry, dialogue and by serving them”.
Knowledge, experience and communication ability are the primary requirements of a successful teacher and Guru.
Krishna practiced all management, leadership and path making approaches before he taught them to all his learners and Pandavas. Thus Krishna is an
outstanding Guru of great achievements, great wisdom and great communication ability. Krishna communicated very effectively without getting excited. He could communicate unpleasant things with a smile and his words had great influence. First he was an outstanding learner of Sandeepani Maharshi and then became an outstanding teacher.
Thus Krishna practiced what he preached and preached what he practiced.
Even before any indication of the Mahabhararata war, great Bheeshma himself an outstanding Aacharya, described Krishna to Shishupala who initially objected to Krishna being invited as the chief guest at Rajasooya Yaga of Yudhishtir at Indraprastha in the following way —
Krishna as a Management Guru Krishna as a Management Guru 1313
Bheeshma said:
1. “Veda Vedaanga Vignaanam Balamchaa Abhyadhikam Tadaa Nrunaam Loke Hi Konyosi
Vishishitah Keshavad Rute”.
2. “Daanam Daakhyam Shrutam Shouryam Shree Keertir Buddhi Ruttamaah
Sannatih Shreer Dhirtis tushtih Pushtischa Niyaatachute”. 3. “Tamimaam Gunasampannam
Aaryancha Pitaram Gurum Arghya Maarchitam Archaarham
Sarve Sankshantu Marhathaa”
M.B.II 3.8. 19/20/21 M.B.II 3.8. 19/20/21
“Krishna with the wisdom of Vedas and Vedangas, is most strong and he is Master giver. He is skilful, learned, valorous, gentle and is with fame, intellect, noble presence, prosperity, stability, happiness and brightness. He is full of noble qualities and is a respectable elder like a parent. He is an honourable and worshipableGuru”.
This was the first time Krishna was publicly described as a Guru by another outstanding Master Guru.
In ‘Bhagavatam’, Uddhava approached Lord Krishna just before the conclusion of the Avataar and addressed him as a Guru. He addressed him as Yogesha, Yoga Vinyasa, Yogaatma, Yoga Sambhava, Narayana, Narasakha and took his sharan (refuge).
Sri Gopala Sahasranaam has extolled him as “Gouri Guru” (Guru of Gauri the shakti) (465), Sarva Dharmagna (703), Sarvagna (710), Guru (742) and
In Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna accepted and revered him as a Guru in many ways.
“Shishyaste Aham Shaadhi Maam Tvaam Prapannam”
B.G.II-7 B.G.II-7
“I am your shishya, I take your shelter. Please show me the way”. After Vishwaroopa darshan, Arjuna addressed him in the following way :
“Pitaasi Lokasya Charaa Charasya Tvamasya Poojyasya Gururgareeyan”.
B.G. XI–43. B.G. XI–43.
“You are the father of the world including all moving and non-moving. You are the greatest Guru”.
Just as Bheeshma described him as a father and a Guru, Arjuna too called him a father and a Guru.
Thus in Bhagavatam, Bhaaratam and Gopala Sahasranaam, Krishna is respected and revered as a Guru and Jagadguru.
While Brindavan, Mathura and Dwaraka were the preparation grounds for Krishna to become a universal management Guru, Indraprastha, Hastinapur and Kurukshetra were the fields of his guidance, advice, direction, teaching and path making.
While Garga Samhitaa and Bhagavatam are catalogues of his love, protection, administration, management, leadership and his noble actions, Mahaabharata is the manual of his guidelines, directions and teachings as Guru and Gopala Sahasranaam shows how Guru and Govind are one and the same.
Krishna as a Management Guru Krishna as a Management Guru 1515
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ahaabharata is encyclopedia of ethics, philosophy, moral treatise, poetry, quality, science, history, and is also a management and leadership guide and a treasure of wisdom and spirituality .It includes illuminating insights on education, learning, training, values, principles, creativity, strategies, counter strategies, teachings, efforts, determination, love, dedication, delegation, trust, empowerment, management, leadership, teachership, path making and visionary mentorship, missionary spirit and all the aspects of life.
CONFLICT BETWEEN ETHICS AND EGO CONFLICT BETWEEN ETHICS AND EGO
Mahaabharata presents the process of journey from conflict to peace. The conflict is between Ethics and Ego. (Please see the diagram). There are five values which are most important in life — human existence, governance, industry, management, leadership and business.
The five values are Ethics, Energy, Excellence, Economy and Ecology. Ethics are of prime importance. Using Energy within the guidelines of Ethics to create Excellence, for ensuring Economy and for safeguarding Ecology ensures progress, success and happiness.
Ethics, Energy, Excellence, Economy and Ecology (Ethics & Co) arise from Purity and Beauty. When there is harmony within Ethics & Co., there is Effectiveness and Efficiency leading to Enlightenment. Wisdom is the guide of Ethics & Co.
Opposing Ethics & Co. is Ego & Co. Ego is accompanied and supported by Excess and Hundred desires. Ego, Excess and Hundred desires emerge from Blindness and Non-seeing. When Ego, Excess and Hundred desires are opposed, Anger and Estrangement arise. Ego & Co. is guided by Wickedness.
The eternal conflict between Ethics & Co. and Ego & Co. is depicted excellently in Mahaabharata.
Ethics, Energy, Excellence, Economy and Ecology are Yushishtar, Bheem, Arjun, Nakul and Sahadev. Purity is Panduraj and beauty is Kunti. Effectiveness and Efficiency are Abhimanyu and Ghatotkach. Enlightenment is Draupadi.
Wisdom is Krishna
On the other hand Ego is Duryodhan. Excess is Dushasan, Hundred desires are hundred Kauravas, Anger is Ashwatama and Karna is Estrangement. Blindness is Dhritarashtra and non-seeing is Gandhari.
Wickedness is Shakuni. Vision is Vyaasa.
The Mahaabharata war is the representation of eternal and continuing conflict between Ethics & Co. and Ego & Co. and conflict between Wisdom and Wickedness.
This is the source code and plot of Mahaabharata visualized and perceived by the great visionary Vyaasa. He also conceived the way to peace from
conflict.
Wisdom plays a deciding, vital, crucial and light giving role. Wisdom is Krishna the teacher, guide, mentor, inspirer and guru. Wisdom helps Ethics & Co. to win and progress.
Mahaabharata Mahaabharata 1717
C o n f l i c t t o P e a c e — E t h i c s V s E g o B L I N D N E S S W I S D O M P U R I T Y B E A U T Y N O N S E E I N G E T H I C S E N E R G Y E X C E L L E N C E E C O N O M Y E C O L O G Y E F F E C T I V E N E S S E F F I C I E N C Y E N L I G H T E N M E N T W I C K E D N E S S E G O E X C E S S A N G E R E S T R A N G E M E N T V I S I O N } 1 0 0 D E S I R E S / W A N T S
M a h a a b h a r a t a C o n f l i c t t o P e a c e — E t h i c s V s E g o B L I N D N E S S D h r i t a r a s h t r a W I S D O M — K r i s h n a P U R I T Y P a n d u r a j B E A U T Y K u n t i N O N S E E I N G G a n d h a r i E T H I C S — Y u d h i s h t i r E N E R G Y — B h e e m E X C E L L E N C E — A r j u n E C O N O M Y — N a k u l E C O L O G Y — S a h a d e v E F F E C T I V E N E S S — A b h i m a n y u E F F I C I E N C Y — G h a t o t k a c h E N L I G H T E N M E N T — D r a u p a d i W I C K E D N E S S — S h a k u n i E G O — D u r y o d h a n E X C E S S — D u s s h a s a n A N G E R — A s h w a t a m a E S T R A N G E M E N T — K a r n a V I S I O N V y a s a } 1 0 0 D E S I R E S / W A N T S 1 0 0 K a u r a v a s Mahaabharata Mahaabharata 1919