Sunday, July 28, 2013

Corporate Chanakya by Radhakrishnan Pillai



‘Corporate Chanakya: Successful Management the Chanakya Way’
By: Radhakrishnan Pillai
Jaico Publishing House
ISBN 978-81-8495-133-2

Through this book, the author has tried to present ancient learning from Chanakya (also named Kautilya) and his writings in Arthsashtra for today’s managers, business leaders and the corporate world. The back cover of the book starts author’s introduction as follows:

Radhakrishnan Pillai, formally educated in management and consultancy, has an MA in Sanskrit and a doctorate in Arthashastra. He studied the ancient text the Arthashastra at Chinmaya International Foundation, Kerala, under the guidance of Dr. Gangadharan Nair.
The book is divided into many parts based on the area of focus. The book is not simply translation work, or complete verse and their meanings. In each unit on a particular theme, the author first introduces the topic, then quotes some of Chanakya’s verses in English and then explains and elaborates in bulleted points. Overall, this can be a complete course of MBA from organizational perspective. I will not be surprised if someday this is included in some BSchool’s curriculum. At least at graduation level (e.g. BBA) this can be immediately included.

After reading this book, one remains in great reverence and respect towards Chanakya for his wisdom and knowledge, and also courage to compile his thoughts and share it for future world. Then Dr. Pillai needs to be immensely credited for this wonderful book. I am quoting a few randomly selected verses from Chanakya for my reference, though this will not give idea about the overall book.

For those who support a theft (or hide a thief); punishment shall be that for a thief. (4.8.6)

In case of non-payment of the wage, the fine is one tenth or six panas. In case of denial, the fine is twelve panas or one fifth. (3.13.33)

All state activities depend first on the Treasury. Therefore, a king (leader) shall devote the best attention to it. (2.8.1-2)

One doing whatever pleases him does not achieve anything. (7.11.35)

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