Vedic Management FAQs ABSTRACT

Vedic Management is growing

into a formidable form of
knowledge - albeit steadily. We at
Vedic Management Centre are
often asked a lot of questions in
this regard by enthusiasts. In this
document are some of the
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs) about Vedic
Management, professed and
propagated at Vedic Management
Center(VMC), with answers
from our Founder & Director U
Mahesh Prabhu. Edited by
Dharali Sharma.
1. Is Vedic Management, professed and propagated by Vedic
Management Centre, Vedic knowledge with a modern
management slant? Or is it something different?

Management is art of managing people and resources to achieve specific

objectives. Modern management schools consider management to be a new age
subject born out of the necessity of the Industrial and Information age. But for
Vedic Rishis (sages) management was a way of life. They realized that without
good management practices a productive society would not exist. However,
they emphasized on preparing oneself through Gynana (knowledge) about
ones own true self (Atman) before embarking on managing others or resources.
They realized that only by knowing ones own true self could one even attempt
to understand another. So, Vedic management, taught at Vedic Management
Centre, begins with understanding of the self, mind and body before
understanding relationships, organizations and institutions; as organizations
and institutions are built on the collective actions, successes and failures of its
members. The sages understood the truth that unless Arishadvargas (six
impending obstacles on paths to progress) were understood and overcome by
the members of any organization nothing of enduring or constructive value
could be achieved. So, by enabling people to conquer their shortcomings, they
could be powerful beyond comprehension.

Practitioners of Vedic management are not super humans, but those who have
understood the fallout of these shortcomings and take conclusive steps to
overcome them. Vedic management offers practical wisdom to create a better
world one person at a time. Prevailing management subjects pertain to
processes and not principles. They teach how to handle marketing, human
resources, finances etc. from the stand point of a process. Accountability rather
than individual responsibility is advocated. They do not delve into failure or
the context in which said processes will be successful. Management principles
as per the Vedas, offer a deeper understanding of the system from the
standpoint of human capital, it endeavours to impart the thought process by
which practitioners can themselves create systems and processes as the
situation requires. Instead of general or standard procedures, customized
solutions can become the norm. Consequently, resources are optimally used,
sustainable profitability is the norm and society benefits from the all rounded
development of its members due to individual responsibility and rational
thinking.

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 2. What are the different branches of Vedic Management?

Vedic Management Centre will teach (course launching shortly) essentially

following streams of Vedic management:

Vedic Self-Management
Vedic Relationship Management
Vedic approach to Critical Thinking for effective Decision Making
Vedic Organizational Management
Vedic approach to Diplomacy & Politics

3. How much of Vedic management is self-help?

Vedic management is an art that emanates from understanding the true nature
of oneself, mind and body to identify ones purpose and consequently
contribute to society and the world. Without understanding oneself there can
neither be self-development nor organizational success. While, present day
self-help pertains to positive thinking, developing better habits and realizing
untapped potential, it lacks a conclusive method or plan. The efficacy or
effectiveness of modern day self-help is questionable, while some deal with the
mind, others focus on the body or emotions. Rarely is the individual Self
addressed. Vedic Management on the other hand, offers a definite guide to
understanding one's psyche, habit patterns (mental and physical) and
overcoming negative tendencies in a positive and conducive way. It is time
tested and customized to individual needs, which neglects neither the mind
nor the body or the emotions.

4. What is a Vedic manager as a career or profession?

Vedic management is the wisdom that empowers people across various

professions and careers to better themselves by understanding their own self,
mind and body then overcoming their limitations with pragmatic efforts to
empower themselves, thus becoming better career oriented
professionals. Once a Vedic manager has understood and imbibed the
teaching and methodology (s)he possesses the necessary tools to undertake any
managerial role in any industry, limited only by the interest or inherent ability,
professional experience of the person. Present day MBA courses offer processes
that can be used in various industries, Vedic Management provides the critical

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 thinking required to understand the efficient and effective use of processes
depending on context and human potential.

5. What do Vedic managers do and what services do they offer,

including what special services and signature activities that
one would specifically identify as Vedic management and not
something else?

Vedic managers will be those who can continue in their existing professions in
a more effective way to create a better life for themselves and those around
them in terms of health, wealth and prosperity. Vedic managers create better
processes, environments and even people to build a better standard of living
for everyone. Personal responsibility, generosity, individuality and
independent thinking are key attributes of Vedic managers. Due to the
emphasis on critical reasoning, Vedic managers are better prepared to foresee
the consequences of their decision on self, company, society and the
world. They advocate global welfare through self-welfare not global welfare
through self-destruction or self-welfare through global destruction.

6. Why would one go to a Vedic manager as opposed to other

managers, guides or Vedic teachers and what for?

Vedic managers will be those who will be bereft of Arishadvargas they will not
suffer from lust, anger, greed, infatuation, ego or enmity. A person without
these limitations will be a friend to all; they will do everything in their purview
to help everyone, with the aim of creating a better world. Conventionally
trained managers are seldom interested in creating a better world through self-
efforts. Corporations create CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives
when social wellbeing became a parameter for perceived success. CSR, in most
cases, is a form of Public Relations. Such practices project the idea of success at
any cost and seldom value people as customers or employees.

Vedic managers understand that such exercises are eventually are seen to be a
sham by customers and any organization indulging in such practices finally
garners only losses. Vedic managers understand the importance of
relationships, necessity of self-realization, accountability and value all
resources (human and otherwise). In a world, which is currently calling out for
equality and social justice, Vedic managers are a perfect fit. The intuitive values

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 of truth and welfare for all guides the actions of Vedic managers; as they believe
that only good begets good.

7. Why would one go to a Vedic manager instead of a Vedic

counsellor, Vedic educator, Ayurvedic practitioner, Vedic
astrologer, meditation teacher, Yoga teacher, Pujari, guru etc.?

Most Yoga teachers rarely if ever teach the entire 8 limbs of Yoga; if they do,
aspects of diet and nutrition that Ayurveda values are not taught. Ayurveda on
the other hand does not always impart knowledge of Yoga. Vedic astrology, in
almost all cases has become a fatalistic view on life, that is unchanging and
cruel. Vedic wisdom that was evident in all aspects of life and in Yoga,
Ayurveda etc. is not taught. Guru has become a clich used in all respects,
without the true meaning of word being understood. While, it is possible for
an individual to seek all the above stated professionals, it will be difficult in
several ways, not least financially. Neither will it guarantee success in
overcoming weaknesses or breaking limiting beliefs. I

In any case, the above stated professionals (Yoga teacher, Ayurvedic

professional etc.), might not have knowledge about governance & strategy,
critical thinking or creating opportunities for wealth generation. Current issues
regarding better management of resources, innovation, wealth distribution can
only be addressed by someone who understands the Vedic philosophy, as well
as, the importance of Yoga, Ayurveda etc. vis--vis current trends in technology
and is in position of management or leadership.

8. Why would one want to become a Vedic manager? What

personal or career or spiritual benefit is involved?

Everyone desires a life free of fear, anxiety, pain and frustration, yet no one
knows how to achieve it. Vedic management will show them the path and
ensure theyll lead a life prosperity and peace of mind.

9. What kind of compensation does a Vedic manager receive or

expect?

Vedic manager is a competent person who knows how to create opportunities

for himself without manipulation. Having the necessary skills, a Vedic

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 manager will be able to demonstrate his ability in any situation. Consequently,
he will be valued in any organization seeking to create a sustainable and
profitable future.

10. How does a Vedic manager gain public recognition in India or

the West?

Recognition is a result of efforts. Vedic manager will know how the dynamics
of Karma (efforts) work in terms of recognition. By being self-assured, (s)hell
work in-line with Dharmic (and universal) principles of creating health, wealth
and prosperity, for all including himself. The values of truth, accountability and
camaraderie with fellow workers will yield the rightful recognition without
compromising on ethics. Prosperity for the Vedic manager is external success
and inner peace.

11. How do you see yourself as a Vedic manager?

As a Vedic manager, I see myself as a selfless, fearless and happy individual

desirous of contributing positively to the society through my Karma in a way
that helps one and all. As a Vedic manager, I see myself as a person who can
create opportunities for myself wherever I am or whenever I so desire. I live
without pain of stress, strain, fear, anxiety or even frustration.

12. How do you see the field of Vedic management?

Vedic management will take a while to get the necessary impetus. But since it
is an intuitive way of creating welfare for all, it is sure to succeed; especially in
the present environment which clamours for social justice and welfare. It will
steadily gain momentum and eventually be accepted as the only true and viable
approach to managing self, family, organizations, to create a happy,
prosperous and sustainable societies.

13. How do you see your approach to Vedic management as

different from the others in the field today?

Present management subjects are theories. These theories have created an

unstable situation with a deteriorating environment, inequality among
members of society and a relentless push towards consumerism. The theories

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 can seldom be implemented, are highly impractical and neither customized nor
innovative. Everyone knows that but since there are no alternatives to
management proven alternatives they are maintaining the facade and
continuing as is.

14. Why should people look up to you as a Vedic management

teacher or guide?

Because I can give solutions and ways that can enable them to see light even in
pitch darkness. As a Vedic Sadhak, my Sadhana has given me the power to
motivate, inspire and guide people on the path to material prosperity as well
as spiritual wellbeing.

15. What is the field of Vedic management in India and West?

Be it India or the West its a blindly accepted fact that making money through
just means is impossible. Well need to change its a slow process but it will
change. I am already doing that by mentoring 10 organizations to create a
profitable proposition for themselves. Steadily with time we can create more
sustainable organizations by presenting the said organizations as prototypes.
We can even employ our students in other organizations if they so choose.

16. What are some important books on Vedic management, modern

and ancient, schools of Vedic management or traditions of
Vedic management?

Mahabharata (teachings of Bhishma, Vidura and Krishna), Yoga Vashistha

(Ramayana), Kautilyas Artha Shastra, Shukracharyas Neeti Samhita, Dasha Bodha
(Samarth Ramdas), Kautilyas Artha Sutras, Bhartriharis Neeti Shataka, Vishnu
Sharmas Panchatantra and the like.

17. What kind of certification exists for Vedic Management, what

does it entail and who offers it?

Vedic management Centre (VMC) will offer theoretical courses online along
with personal interaction through webinars once a week. On completion, a
certification will be provided mentioning theory only. To get a full
certification students must work with someone or in their own businesses and

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 make it promising if not profitable. During these process, they might require to
constantly interact with their mentor at VMC who will guide them through the
things steadily. After that they will need to provide a dissertation along with a
signature from the manager or business owner. If it is their own business they
will need to provide some valid financial documents to prove that they have
achieved the task.

18. What affiliations does the VMC have with religious bodies or
cultural institutions? It is an institute geared to promoting
religious values?
VMC is not a religious or cultural organization, and hence does not affiliate to
them. While, the philosophy is inspired from ancient Vedic (often known as
Hindu) texts, the goal of the centre is to promote critical thinking, rational
decision making, knowledge of self, mind & body and methods by which
external success and inner peace can be attained by all. At VMC, we do not
promote religious dogma or discriminatory practises of any nature; all courses
are geared towards practical application of knowledge in keeping with the
modern times.

19. I have no understanding of Hindu philosophy, language or

culture; will that restrict me from understanding the courses?
Vedic philosophy which inspired Hinduism - is the inspiration for the VMC,
but all communication and course material is in English. If and whenever,
certain words (terms) do come up in the course material, they are explained in
English with references such that any person of any origin can relate to the
teaching. Knowledge of the Hindu culture is not necessary; the courses offered
are not to promote the Hindu identity or culture but to impart practical skills
to lead a prosperous life. We promote independent and rational thinking and
would request all members to highlight any issues that might suggest dogmatic
thinking.

20. How are courses different from other Hindu organizations

that teach Yoga etc.?
VMC teaches practical skills like critical thinking among others, the courses
have little to do with current day Yoga courses. The objective of VMCs courses
is to offer better methods in the fields of management (both self and

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 relationships), strategy, politics and diplomacy. The objective of VMC differs
considerably from popular Yoga or other Hindu courses offered.

21. Are the courses geared only towards managers or leaders?

The courses are for anyone seeking to manage or lead their life in a better
way. In that respect, everyone is a manager or leader. The courses impart
practical skills that can be used in every situation at home or in the workplace.
The goal is to create prosperity and bliss for all from all walks of life.

22. What will someone who has already attended managerial

programs both educational and professional gain from the
courses?
Having learnt and utilised prevailing management theories, a manager
already knows their drawbacks. Group think, rigidity, lack of creativity and
perspective sets in despite efforts made to the contrary. These and many other
issues are addressed by the courses at VMC. Professional managers or leaders
can directly apply the methods taught to supplement the processes they have
in their workplaces.

If youve any further questions, please feel free to email U. Mahesh Prabhu,
Founder & Director, Vedic Management Centre at mahesh@vedic-
management.com

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