With the Mahabharata streaming on OTT—now enhanced with AI effects—the epic continues to captivate audiences. What makes classics like Ramayana and Mahabharata timeless is that, no matter how many times we watch them, they always reveal new insights. As we grow and gain life experience, these stories find new relevance in our personal and professional lives.
Recently, I reflected on the character of Bheeshma Pitamaha, revered for his unwavering commitment and personal sacrifice. Bheeshma took a vow of lifelong celibacy to serve his father’s wishes and dedicated his life to protecting Hastinapur. However, watching closely, I felt strongly that some of his actions might have inadvertently sparked the very conflict he devoted his life to preventing.
When Bheeshma rushes to defend his foster brother Vichitravirya—who behaves recklessly in neighbouring kingdom Panchala—he demonstrates loyalty but also arrogance, using his position to justify questionable actions. Instead of helping Vichitravirya learn and grow, he inadvertently enables further misbehavior.
In another instance, Bheeshma blindly follows Raj Mata Satyavati’s wishes, forcefully intervening in a swayamvar and compelling the princesses to marry Vichitravirya, disregarding their wishes and the feelings of others. Such acts, driven by misplaced loyalty and nepotism, ultimately harmed multiple lives.
Throughout these events, the justification often given is that Bheeshma was upholding his “dharma” by obeying those in authority for protecting the kingdom and it’s throne. But true dharma, as described in our scriptures, is about creating harmony and justice—not simply following orders. There’s a clear parallel in the moment when Bheeshma, the moral compass of the court, fails to intervene during Draupadi’s humiliation—choosing silence over action.
Key Takeaway for Leaders : Personal sacrifice or loyalty, even in service of an organization or family, should not justify actions that harm others or compromise our values. True virtue lies in standing up for what is right—even if it means facing disagreement or conflict with those we care about.
In today’s world, how often do we see leaders who, in the name of “doing their duty,” overlook ethical lapses or enable toxic practices? Are we creating modern-day Bheeshma Pitamahs—taskmasters celebrated for results, yet oblivious to the lives and morale they damage along the way?
Final Thought: Leadership is not just about loyalty and sacrifice—it’s also about the courage to challenge wrongdoing and uphold justice, even when the cost is personal.