The history and the mythology of the lands of India have taught us a number of things, including the righteous way of life. A great story that has prevailed through times has been of the epic Mahabharata. Though not taught at the top MBA colleges in Rajasthan, Mahabharata has lessons for everything you can imagine, including management as well. In this time of coronavirus outbreak, the government of India took a great step in showing Mahabharata on TV.
But do not think that it is only for entertainment. Mahabharata can be a great teacher to you in your management education if you know how to read between the lines. Here are the best management lessons that you can learn from Mahabharata.
Management Lessons From Mahabharata:
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Strategy and Leadership
Mahabharat is the prime example of what a grand strategy can do for an endeavor. The Pandavas and Kauravas planned everything, from the size of their army, to who will lead them, and in what formation they will fight in. Even when we keep the fight aside, there is a countless number of examples of strategy and leadership tactics that portray the lessons you may have learned at the best BBA college in Rajasthan. These include the way Pandavas stayed in their exile and how they led the rule of Indraprastha with righteous governance. You pay close attention to the story, and you will realize how good they were in planning.
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Teamwork and Team Spirit
Teamwork makes the dream work. Always. Had it not been for the great line-up of fighters in the Pandava army, the outcome of the war could have been different. Even when Kauravas had the best warriors on their side like Beeshma, Drona, and Karana, they all fought their individual battles, while the Pandavas created a strong team, thus defeating their enemy in a straight battle.
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Timing is Important
Sometimes, crucial decisions have to be taken. However, the timing of these decisions matters a lot. Lord Krishna sent Gatotkach to enemy camp so Karana could not use his “Shakti Astra” to kill Arjuna, who was the spirit of the war for the Pandavas. He sacrificed Abhimanyu to violation of the laws decided for war, so Arjuna could break the law to kill Karana. These decisions, even when some of them are questionable, came at the right time, which brought things in favour of the winning side.
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Committing to a Challenge
Committing to the challenge you have taken up is important in winning them. Pandavas had almost 1 million fewer soldiers than the Kauravas, and yet they did not give up. Commitment and determination to the cause helped them win the war despite being severely outnumbered.
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Identifying Team’s Strengths and Assigning Work Accordingly
As a leader and a manager, it is important to know what a particular team member can handle, and what they are naturally good at. This is essentially important in times of crisis and to boost your MBA career well. You play on the strengths of your team members, and no goal is difficult for you. This is why Pandavas gave the task of constructing their palace to Vishvakarma, the architect of the gods. They also divided their army under the sound leadership of great warriors.
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Motivation
Keeping the team motivated is one of the most important tasks of a manager and a leader. When Arjuna saw his own family on the other side of the battlefield, he wanted to turn around and give up. Lord Krishna rose up to the moment and motivated Arjuna by reminding him of his “Dharma”, his duty.
Mahabharata is sprinkled with such small details that are large lessons for life. Management of a team is nothing short of a battle in the brewing. And preparing your team to win is your duty. So keep these lessons in mind and get ready to join the world as a professional.
