Page 61 - NITI - Navigating Indian Traditions in Industry

a clear, focused strategy and acting with purpose, businesses can navigate obstacles
and ultimately achieve sustainable growth.

Strategic Lesson: Leadership Through Service and Humility
Surya, the sun god, is known for his ability to give light and warmth to all, without
discrimination. This reflects the leadership principle of serving others with humility.
Great leaders lead by example, showing humility and putting the needs of their teams
and organizations before their own. This style of leadership fosters trust, collaboration,
and commitment within the organization.

Corporate Example: Indra Nooyi’s Leadership at PepsiCo: Indra Nooyi, former
CEO of PepsiCo, led with a servant-leadership approach. She was known for listening
to her employees, fostering a culture of respect, and leading with humility. Her focus
on creating sustainable products, fostering diversity, and prioritizing the well-being
of PepsiCo’s employees and customers set an example of how leadership through
service can drive long-term success.

15. Lessons from the Kurma Purana (Strategic Partnerships and Alliances)
The Kurma Purana offers profound insights into the concepts of resilience,
collaboration, and strategic patience, all of which hold immense relevance in
contemporary business practices. The tale of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as the tortoise
(Kurma) to support the churning of the ocean serves as a powerful metaphor for the
importance of laying a strong foundation and ensuring strategic alignment. Just as
the tortoise endured the weight of the Mount Mandara during the churning process,
businesses too must ensure their core infrastructure is robust, capable of withstanding
external pressures, and adaptable to unforeseen challenges. The Purana also teaches
the value of collaboration, as the churning of the ocean required the joint efforts of the
gods and demons, demonstrating that collective effort, even in the face of adversity,
often leads to the greatest rewards. Additionally, the story highlights the importance
of patience and incremental progress. The successful churning was not instantaneous
but required sustained effort over time, reflecting how businesses must prioritize long-
term goals, steadily innovate, and be patient as they work towards success. Ultimately,
the Kurma Purana encourages businesses to be resilient, collaborative, and strategic
in their approach to growth, emphasizing that sustained effort and the strength of
a well-supported foundation are essential for navigating complex and competitive
environments.

47