“Sri Krishnas and Salyas in Organizations” – By Prof.M.S.Rao

In the Mahabharat epic, at the beginning of Kurukshetra battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, Arjun was caught in an emotional dilemma as he had to fight against his relatives, and elderly persons like Bheesma and his Guru, Drona and others. When Arjun lost his motivation then Lord Krishna motivated and explained to Arjun that he was fighting against evil forces and the people who were on the wrong side. Having been persuaded and motivated by Lord Sri Krishna, Arjun fought the battle under the leadership and mentorship of Sri Krishna and finally Pandavas won the battle at the end.

On the other hand, a great warrior like Karna who was highly motivated and who decided to take on battle against his half brother Arjun for the sake of his friend Duryodhana was discouraged by his charioteer, Salya. Throughout the battle Karna was discouraged by Salya, as the latter wanted the victory of Pandavas defeat of Kauravas. Every time when Karna was fighting against Arjun with great motivation, Salya crushed the morale of Karna and ultimately became responsible for the death of Karna and defeat of Kauravas.

When we look at such characters like Sri Krishna and Salya in the Mahabharat epic, it becomes very clear that in organizations also we find such people who motivate the depressed people and take their people to greater heights of glory. In contrast, we also find few people who depress the highly motivated people through negativism and cynicism.

Therefore, it is essential on the part of the organizations to identify the elements who often criticize, condemn and complain against others and who often invalidate others. Such elements are nuisance for others as it hampers the organizational productivity and performance. Employees like Salya are available in all organizations who are the speed brakers and leave the organization in the lurch at the time of crisis. Such Salyas have to be shown the door as they vitiate the organizational culture and climate. To conclude, let us look for Sri Krishnas but not Salyas in our personal, professional and social life to excel as leaders and to come out with flying colors.