Lord Krishna – The Master Strategist: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Corporate Leaders - P. Mohan Chandran
- Dr. Vineet Gera
- Nov 21
- 3 min read

The Indian epic Mahabharata, believed to be the most profound and extensive text ever composed, continues to illuminate minds even thousands of years later. The book “Lord Krishna – The Master Strategist” by P. Mohan Chandran taps into this eternal treasure and brings forward management and leadership insights that are as relevant for the boardroom today as they were on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
The Mahabharata is not merely a story—it is a complete manual on human psychology, moral dilemmas, decision-making, governance, and strategy. It tells us what to do and what not to do, which path to choose and which to avoid, what is right and what leads to downfall. The book beautifully articulates that anything that exists in today’s world—politics, leadership, diplomacy, ethics, conflicts—already exists within the Mahabharata. And at the center of this grand epic stands Krishna, the ultimate strategist whose clarity of purpose, far-sighted thinking, and profound understanding of human nature make Him an unmatched leadership figure.
Krishna – A Leader Beyond Time
This book positions Krishna not just as a divine figure but as a pragmatic leader whose decisions were rooted in reality, empathy, and foresight. Krishna used his resources—people, situations, opportunities—with unmatched precision. Whether it was forming alliances, motivating warriors, negotiating peace, managing conflicts, or steering an unprepared Arjuna into action, Krishna demonstrated a leadership style that blends compassion with assertiveness and strategy with dharma.
Modern corporate leaders face uncertainties, competitive pressures, and complex internal dynamics. Krishna’s life offers a roadmap on how one can navigate these challenges with balance, calmness, and strategic sharpness. The author highlights multiple occasions where Krishna transforms adversities into opportunities—exactly what leaders today are required to do.
A Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Corporate Realities
One of the book’s most powerful elements is its ability to interpret ancient wisdom in a contemporary context. It does not treat the Mahabharata as mythology, but as a living guide. The examples and lessons are presented in a way that corporate professionals can directly apply them to leadership, organizational development, team conflict, negotiations, and long-term vision building.
The reader is invited to rethink corporate strategy through the lens of Krishna’s methods:
How Krishna built trust and nurtured relationships long before seeking outcomes
How he led without holding any formal “designation” yet remained the central decision-maker
How he practiced values-led leadership while staying grounded and action-oriented
How he mastered the art of influencing people ethically
How he prepared individuals mentally, emotionally, and spiritually before placing responsibilities on them
These principles resonate strongly in boardrooms today—where leadership is no longer about authority, but about the ability to inspire, influence, and create meaningful impact.
Leadership Rooted in Dharma
The book emphasizes a fundamental truth: a true leader must always walk the path of righteousness—dharma. Krishna’s leadership was never about personal gain; it was always about the welfare of society and the balance of the world order. This message is exceptionally relevant today, when organizations are shifting away from profit-only mindsets toward a more holistic approach—employee well-being, ethical practices, sustainable development, and long-term vision.
The author brings forward this connection beautifully—reminding modern leaders that the ultimate goal is the well-being of all stakeholders, not short-term achievements.
A Thought-Provoking Read for Strategists and Leaders
This book stands out because it does not preach—it provokes thought. It encourages readers to reflect on their leadership styles, consider their blind spots, and look at challenges through a wider lens. Krishna’s strategies—from choosing the right battles to handling adversaries with wisdom—serve as catalysts for personal and professional introspection.
Whether you are a CEO, manager, entrepreneur, coach, or simply someone looking to develop deeper clarity in life, this book offers a rare blend of ancient insights and practical relevance.
In a time when leadership books come and go, “Lord Krishna – The Master Strategist” stands timeless—because its foundation rests on wisdom that has guided humanity for ages.



