“This science (of Arthashastra) brings into being and reserves spiritual good, material well-being and pleasures, and destroys spiritual evil, material loss and hatred” (15.1.72)” – RP Kangle, The Kautiliya Arthasastra, Part II, Motilal Banarsidass, Delhi, 1972
Bharatiya philosophy is generally known for its spiritual pursuits and insights. Though spiritual progress leading to Moksha has been central to our life objective, it is not considered antithetical to worldly affairs. Unlike the Western paradigm of secularism, where spiritual and material are dualistic to each other, the Bharatiya point of view considers them as harmonising dimensions of life, and Hindu festivals are the best examples of the same. Deepawali, the festival of light, where prosperity and spirituality are celebrated together, must be cherished and understood with the same spirit. The Bharatiya idea of Shubh-Labh, which translates to ‘auspicious gains ‘, is a key concept in our culture. It signifies that our material prosperity should be earned through ethical means and should bring spiritual satisfaction. Entrepreneurs, who follow such a model are the best strategists to reconnect with the civilisational idea of Deepawali.
Each festival rooted in Bharat has a civilisational connection and associated stories. The epic stories of Ramayan and Mahabharat naturally find a place in the celebration. After burning the Ravana effigy on Vijayadashami, Deepawali symbolises the homecoming of Shri Ram, Mata Sita and brother Laxman to the pious land of Ayodhya – the land of peace or without war. Cherishing the values of Ram-Rajya – the civilisational ideal of Bharat is reflected in festivities of lights and sweets. Along with the same, it has the content and connotation of celebrating prosperity.
Contrary to popular perception and narratives, Bharat gave equal importance to material well-being and spiritual enlightenment. Vyapare Vasate Lakshmi – In trade dwells Lakshmi – has been the core principle driving our wealth creation spirit. Hence, not just agriculture but industrious and entrepreneurial activities have guided us for ages, which has enabled us to attain a significant position in global trade for centuries. उद्यमः साहसं धैर्यं बुद्धिः शक्तिः पराक्रमः| षडेते यत्र वर्तन्ते तत्र देव सहायकृत् || Capacity to make strenuous and continuous efforts – being industrious, courage, patience, intelligence, strength and valour, if these six qualities exist in a person, even the God assists him in the efforts, this is how qualities of the entrepreneur are explained in our tradition.
The significant feature was that our model of being an entrepreneur was not exploitative of the nature of other human beings. Even when we expanded our trade across the seas, we did not negatively impact the local culture or traditions. On the contrary, we encouraged them to be prosperous retaining their local customs. Bali Yatra, which connects Bharat’s Eastern and Southern coasts with South East Asia, is a classic example.
As the world grapples with the crisis of inflation and depression, and global challenges such as resource sustainability and environmental preservation loom large, the Bharatiya model of wealth creation emerges as a potential guiding force. In a landscape where market globalisation and imposed Communism have failed to address the challenges of holistic well-being, the Bharatiya model offers a beacon of hope. Its emphasis on ethical wealth creation and societal responsibility can inspire a new wave of sustainable business practices, empowering the world to address these pressing global challenges.
This Deepawali holds special significance as the auspicious symbol of Swastika has been successfully rescued from its misrepresentation as the Nazi symbol of the Hooked Cross. This victory, achieved through the efforts of thousands of Bharatvanshis (people of Bharatiya origin), symbolises the righteous gains of Shubh and Labh. Our business cycle, rooted in specific values, should prioritise the sharing of gains with society. This model, based on truth and righteousness, rejects exploitative measures for unethical profit. Instead, it champions socially responsible, sustainable business model of Shubh Labh, offering a hopeful vision for the future.
As Bharat strives for Aatmanirbharta in all walks of life, including technological advancement, we should strive to integrate our values into modern management. This Deepawali, we are presenting some young entrepreneurs who have tried to contribute to this endeavour to make Bharat Aatmanirbhar and present a model before the world based on familial globalisation. Familial globalisation is a concept that promotes global trade and interaction while retaining the values and traditions of our culture. We should inspire people to create wealth based on the principles of Shubh-Labh. Shubh Deepawali!.
