Dharma-Centric Leadership Model for Corporate Excellence

Authors: AJAB SINGH

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37082/IJIRMPS.v13.i6.232840

Short DOI: https://doi.org/hbds2r

Country: India

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Abstract: This paper introduces the Dharma-Centric Leadership Model (D-CLM), an ethical and holistic framework for corporate governance derived from the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita (Mitchell, Trans., 2000). Moving beyond conventional models focused solely on maximizing profit, this approach places Dharma (righteous duty and ethical conduct) at the core of organizational strategy, defining the company's purpose and guiding its actions, exemplified by the environmental commitment of Patagonia (Corporate Dharma) and the ethical sourcing of Unilever (Aparā Dharma). The model is structured around three core pillars from the Gita: Sva-Dharma (individual duty aligned with corporate role, as practiced by leaders like N.R. Narayana Murthy), Nishkama Karma (action without attachment to results, promoting the process excellence of Toyota), and Buddhi Yoga (wisdom-driven, balanced decision-making, evidenced by the ethical crisis response of Johnson & Johnson). Furthermore, it emphasizes Yoga-Kshema (holistic well-being and security) as the leader's stewardship duty toward stakeholders, reflected in the employee-centric culture of Costco. The article argues that this model fosters ethical resilience, ensures sustainable growth, cultivates a purpose-driven culture, and builds long-term stakeholder trust, positioning it as a powerful and practically relevant blueprint for achieving enduring corporate excellence in the modern, complex business environment.

Keywords: Dharma-Centric Leadership, Bhagavad Gita, Nishkama Karma, Buddhi Yoga, Corporate Governance.

Paper Id: 232840

Published On: 2025-12-06

Published In: Volume 13, Issue 6, November-December 2025

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