The Corporate Hanuman

The story of Lord Hanuman in the Ramayana's Kishkindha Kand teaches us that a genuine leader has no fear of telling the truth, even to their superiors. Hanuman believed it was his duty to remind Sugreev of his duties as monarch, despite the fact that doing so meant going against his superior's orders. Hanuman believed that a leader who acted irresponsibly could not expect his or her adherents to act responsibly, and that it was essential to prioritize one's responsibilities and assist one's friends. Hanuman therefore walked to Sugreev's private chambers and offered him a lesson on the nuances of ethical norms. Though Sugreev's initial reaction was wrath, he soon realized that Hanuman's intrusion was warranted. Sugreev was eventually motivated by Hanuman's words and ordered the hunt for SITA. This narrative illustrates how true leaders prioritize their responsibilities and are unafraid to speak the truth, even if it means contradicting their superiors.

Welcome to the eighth post in our series, "The Corporate Hanuman," where we explore the valuable lessons that professionals can learn from the great devotee of Lord Rama. In this post, we delve into the importance of rituals and etiquette in both personal and professional life, as demonstrated in the episode of "Meeting of Ram-Sugreev-Hanuman" from Valmiki Ramayan (Kishkindha Kand). Join us as we examine how Hanuman's observance and meticulousness towards protocols set an example for modern-day professionals. The story of Ram-Sugreev-Hanuman's meeting teaches us the power of rituals and etiquette in our personal and professional lives. Hanuman's keen attention to detail and respect for protocols set an example for modern-day professionals to follow. When Hanuman introduced Ram and Sugreev to each other, he created a ritual sacrifice to help Sugreev focus on his commitment to Ram. This demonstrates how rituals can bind our unstable minds to our commi

  The story of first meeting of Ram-Hanuman-Sugreev from Kishkindha Kand of Valmiki Ramayan tells us about the importance of perception and recognition in both personal and professional life. Fear often distorts our perception of problems and prevents us from finding solutions, but clarity can lead us to freedom. This is demonstrated in Sugreev's behaviour, as he could not recognize Ram as a solution to his problems until he was advised by Hanuman, who he trusted more than his own perception. Hanuman played the role of Sugreev's trusted advisor and friend, demonstrating the importance of mentorship and guidance in the corporate world. He possessed both theoretical and practical knowledge that he used to guide and inspire Sugreev. His ability to communicate effectively with Ram, bridge the gap between them, and adapt his actions to prevent Sugreev's mind from going into overdrive highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. We can see one example of H

  As we delve into the first encounter between Ram and Hanuman, it's important to focus on an often-overlooked aspect: the art of communication. While Ramcharit Manas doesn't delve much into this topic, Valmiki Ramayan sheds light on it in the third section (sarg) of Kishkindha Kand. In shlokas 27 and 28, Shri Ram advises Laxman to interact with Hanuman, noting that he is not only Sugreev's minister but also a brave person who has defeated all his enemies. “Tamabhyabhap Saumitrey Sugreevsachivam kapim. Vakyagyam madhurervakye: snehyuktarmarandam.(27) NanRugvedvineetasy NaYajurveddharin: NaSamvedvidush: shakyamevam prabhaashitum. (28)   [Meaning: “O Laxman, please interact with Hanuman, who is not only the minister of Sugreev, but he is a brave person who has destroyed all his enemies. The way he has been talking to us is not possible for anyone who has have the deepest study and knowledge of three major Veds (namely- Rigved, Yajurved, and Samved)]. In shlokas 29

  (Photo courtesy : Ramcharit Manas - Manoj Publications) In the Kishkindha Kand of Ramcharit Manas, Goswami Tulsidas narrates the conversation between Hanuman and his master, Lord Ram, as they meet for the first time. Hanuman recognizes his master and surrenders himself completely to him, achieving the perfection of his existence by serving such a divine master. This interaction between a leader and a team member holds valuable lessons for us in the corporate world, particularly in communication and building relationships. In the conversation between Hanuman and Lord Ram, we see Hanuman acknowledging his faults and surrendering himself to his master. He declares that he knows nothing about devotional service and remains confident in his master's care. Hanuman also remembers his boss Sugreev and immediately works towards creating a win-win situation for both Ram and Sugreev. This resembles modern-day organizations' merger and acquisition processes and joint ventures. Look a

( Photo courtesy: Ramcharit Manas -Manoj Publications) In the previous blog, we discussed how Hanuman's influence was demonstrated through his role as an advisor to Sugreev. In this blog, we will focus on Hanuman's devotion to Shri Ram. When Shri Ram and Laxman first encounter Hanuman in the guise of a Sanyasi, they are initially suspicious of his intentions.   However, Hanuman's probing questions and insightful observations eventually convince Shri Ram of his sincerity. When Hanuman's disguise fades away and he reveals himself as a monkey, he falls at Shri Ram's feet in tears of devotion. In Kishkindha Kand of Ramcharit Manas, Goswami Tulsidas has narrated this scene very nicely (from chaupai 4 onwards) and the conversation between Ram and Hanuman ji is worth understanding: Hanuman asks: को तुम्ह स्यामल गौर सरीरा   ⁠ । छत्री रूप फिरहु बन बीरा   ⁠ । ⁠ । कठिन भूमि कोमल पद गामी   ⁠ । कवन हेतु बिचरहु बन स्वामी   ⁠ । ⁠ । "Ko tumha syaamal gaur sareera