Dharma and Ethical Governance: Leadership Ideals in The Bhagavad Gita"

Abstract

The Bhagavad Gita stands as one of the most influential philosophical texts addressing the ethical foundations of leadership and governance. Embedded within the Mahabharata, the Gita transcends its immediate historical context to articulate universal principles of duty, moral responsibility, selfless action, and social harmony. This paper examines the concept of value-based leadership as presented in the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on key doctrines such as Dharma (righteous duty), Nishkama Karma (desireless action), self-discipline, equanimity (samatva), ethical role modelling, and social responsibility. Through a close reading of selected verses with textual references, the study highlights how Krishna’s teachings provide a comprehensive background for ethical governance. The paper further explores the contemporary relevance of the Gita’s leadership philosophy in addressing modern crises of governance, corruption, and moral decline. It argues that the Bhagavad Gita offers a timeless model of leadership grounded in values, wisdom, and service to society.