Shankh was used by warriors to primarily communicate one’s resolve and intention. The Shankh thus reiterates that a leader should be an effective communicator –
your team must know who you are, what your capabilities are, what your vision is and what you expect them to do, and why and how this will help in achieving your final objective.
According to the author, the chakra can be viewed as a symbol of review; and gada (maze) and padma (lotus) are symbols of punishment and reward.
The mace is like a teacher’s ruler, to punish those who do not do what they are supposed to do. The lotus rich with nectar and pollen that attracts bees and butterfly is for those who do what they are supposed to do and more.
The use of ‘Shankh’ symbol as a management tool is interesting but the other three sounds far fetched. The weakest being the Chakra symbol.
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The symbols associated with Lord Vishnu in Hindu
mythology—Shankh (conch shell), Chakra (discus), Gada (mace), and Padma
(lotus)—are deeply symbolic and hold significance not only in religious
contexts but also in various aspects of life, including management and
leadership.
Shankh (Conch Shell): Communication: In management, effective communication is crucial for success. The Shankh symbolizes communication and the power of conveying messages effectively. Like the sound of the conch shell, a good leader's communication should resonate clearly, reaching and influencing their team members.
Chakra (Discus): Strategy and Planning: The Chakra symbolizes strategy and planning. Just as Lord Vishnu's discus is a weapon that destroys obstacles, in management, strategic planning helps in anticipating challenges and overcoming them efficiently. A good leader should possess the ability to strategize effectively, making decisions that propel the organization forward.
Gada (Mace): Strength and Authority: The Gada symbolizes strength and authority. In management, it represents the power to enforce decisions and maintain discipline within the organization. A leader needs to have the strength to make tough decisions and the authority to implement them effectively while ensuring the well-being of the team.
Padma (Lotus): Purity and Growth: The Padma symbolizes purity and growth. In management, it signifies the nurturing of talent and fostering an environment conducive to growth. Like the lotus, which grows in muddy waters but remains untainted, a good leader should inspire growth and development in their team members while maintaining ethical standards and integrity.
Integrating these symbols into management practices can help leaders cultivate essential qualities such as effective communication, strategic planning, strength, authority, and fostering growth within their teams. Just as Lord Vishnu uses these symbols to maintain cosmic order and protect dharma, leaders can use them as tools to create a harmonious and thriving work environment.