Dharmic Values-Based Leadership (DVBL): Integrating Indian Knowledge Systems with Contemporary Leadership Theory

Abstract

Leadership in modern-day organisations needs to take into account organisational performance, ethical accountability, and sustainable development, along with other aspects. While theories like transformational, servant, ethical, authentic and spiritual leadership have enriched leadership literature, they have not focused on all aspects at one time but on isolated dimensions. Moreover, principles of leadership in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) have not received enough coverage in management literature. In this context, this paper aims to propose Dharmic Values-Based Leadership (DVBL) – an integrative conceptual framework based on the principles of Dharma, Nishkama Karma, and Lokasangraha. The framework conceptualises DVBL using three interlinked pillars, namely Ethical Governance, Human-Centred Leadership, and Collective Welfare and Purpose, which encompass nine dimensions of leadership and enhance trust, psychological safety, engagement, ethical environment and sustainable performance in organisations. Thus, the framework adds to the extant values-based leadership literature by integrating Indian philosophy with contemporary leadership theories to offer an integrated view of responsible leadership. Theoretically, this paper makes a contribution in developing DVBL as a higher-order leadership construct and laying the groundwork for future studies in the form of the Dharmic Values-Based Leadership Scale (DVBLS).