Dharma and Leadership: Ethical Governance Lessons from Valmiki Ramayana

Abstract

As an ancient Indian epic, Valmiki Ramayana is a profound source of ethical and moral leadership principles that embody some timeless leadership lessons for righteous governance, integrity, selflessness, compassion, and justice. Rajadharma (duties of a ruler) are personified in Lord Rama, who is portrayed as the ideal king, committed to truth (Satya), sacrifice (Tyaga), responsibility, and justice. His model of leadership concerns servant leadership, ethical decision-making, and prioritizing the welfare of the people over personal interest. In light of global governance challenges, political and infamous corruption, as well as ethical queries, leadership values of the Ramayana have great insights as the leadership, which is responsible and moral. To explore in what instances these age-old principles have relevance to modern democratic institutions, corporate ethics, and the contemporary political sphere, and to draw up a sustainable model of governance for today’s leaders, this study is written. Integrating the ethical teachings of Ramayana in global governance can help leaders develop trust, a sense of justice, and leadership that would enable us to flourish in a morally sound and sustainable world order.