Page 47 - NITI - Navigating Indian Traditions in Industry

3.1 The Puranas: A Narrative Tradition

The Puranas are a genre of ancient Indian literature that consists of mythological
stories, legends, and historical accounts. They are one of the primary sources of
Indian cultural and religious traditions and have played a crucial role in shaping
the collective consciousness of the Indian people. The Puranas are not just stories;
they are repositories of knowledge that convey profound philosophical, ethical, and
practical lessons.

The Puranas are traditionally classified into 18 major and many minor texts, each
associated with a particular deity or theme. The most well-known among them are
the Vishnu Purana, Shiva Purana, and the Bhagavata Purana. These texts are rich in
allegory and symbolism, using stories of gods, demons, kings, and sages to convey
moral and strategic lessons.
For instance, the Mahabharata, which is often considered a Purana, is a vast epic that
explores the complexities of dharma (duty/righteousness), Artha (purpose), and Kama
(desire). The characters in the Mahabharata, such as Krishna, Arjuna, and Bhishma,
are faced with difficult choices and dilemmas that have strategic implications. The epic
offers insights into leadership, diplomacy, warfare, and ethics, making it a valuable
resource for understanding the principles of strategic wisdom.
The Puranas also emphasize the importance of context in decision-making. The stories
often present situations where the application of dharma is not straightforward and
requires careful consideration of the circumstances. This emphasis on contextuality
is a key aspect of strategic wisdom, as it recognizes that rigid adherence to rules or
principles without regard to the situation can lead to suboptimal or even disastrous
outcomes.

3.2 Nyaya: The Science of Logic and Reasoning

Nyaya, one of the six classical schools of Indian philosophy, is primarily concerned
with logic, reasoning, and epistemology. It is often referred to as the “science of
reasoning” and provides a systematic framework for understanding and analysing
the world. The central text of the Nyaya school is the Nyaya Sutras, attributed to the
sage Gautama, which outlines the principles of logical argumentation and debate.

Nyaya’s significance in IKS lies in its emphasis on the process of acquiring knowledge
(Pramana). According to Nyaya, there are four valid means of knowledge: perception
(Pratyaksha), inference (Anumana), comparison (Upamana), and testimony (Shabda).
These methods are crucial for developing a reliable understanding of the world, which
is essential for making informed and effective decisions.
In the context of strategy, Nyaya’s emphasis on logic and reasoning provides a
valuable tool for analysing situations, identifying potential outcomes, and making
sound decisions. The Nyaya approach encourages a critical and analytical mindset,

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