Managerial ethos of the Indian tradition: relevance of a wisdom model

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a broad historical review of critical wisdom literature of ancient Indian tradition and examine how these precepts can complement and enrich the contemporary managerial frames.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper attempts to critically review remarkably deep religious and secular traditions of India and integrate them in a conceptual model.

Findings

The paper findings point towards the need for a holistic frame in overcoming fragmented viewpoints of contemporary management by strengthening the reflective domains of the managerial world.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the paper lies in its didactic nature and the specificity of the contextual boundary limiting its ready transferability.

Practical implications

The paper provides a pointer in extending horizons of business or non‐business organizations in opening up their possibilities for achieving holistic managerial perspectives by combining economic, social and other higher order sustainable goals.

Originality/value

The paper's contribution is in its integrative value of some of the key themes of Indian wisdom literature and demonstrating their relevance to the modern management.

Citation

Ranjan Chatterjee, S. (2009), "Managerial ethos of the Indian tradition: relevance of a wisdom model", Journal of Indian Business Research, Vol. 1 No. 2/3, pp. 136-162. https://doi.org/10.1108/17554190911005336