In today’s corporate world, where quarterly results, market share, and competition often dominate boardroom conversations, a compelling new book is challenging the way we think about leadership. The Dharma Code: Ancient Ethics, Modern Boardrooms by Anupam Pattanayak—known in professional circles as AP—is making waves for proposing a bold idea: the key to sustainable leadership lies not only in strategy, but in ethics.
Far from being just another book on management, The Dharma Code weaves the timeless moral and strategic frameworks of the Indian epics—the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita—into the complex realities of corporate decision-making. Drawing parallels between legendary characters and today’s leadership challenges, Pattanayak offers a fresh perspective that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply practical.
From Krishna’s diplomatic genius as a model for complex negotiations, to Yudhishthira’s unwavering commitment to truth as a guide for corporate transparency, and Arjuna’s moral dilemmas as analogies for executive decision paralysis, the book connects the dots between ancient wisdom and modern boardroom realities.
A Leader with Credibility and Experience
An alumnus of IIFT–New Delhi and IIM–Calcutta, Pattanayak brings over three decades of global leadership experience across corporate strategy, entrepreneurship, consulting, governance, ESG, and risk management. Having worked with Government Public Sector Enterprises, Tier-1 multinational corporations, and dynamic startups around the world, Pattanayak has advised boards through turbulent transformations and helped organizations bridge the gap between vision and execution.
This unique blend of real-world execution and lifelong study of ancient Indian philosophy allows him to speak with both gravitas and relatability. His insights are not abstract theories—they are tested principles that can guide decisions in high-stakes corporate environments.
Why The Dharma Code Matters Now
In an age of technological disruption, environmental crises, and rapidly shifting workplace expectations, leaders face more ethical trade-offs and grey areas than ever before. Corporate scandals and short-term thinking continue to erode trust in business. Against this backdrop, The Dharma Code emerges with a clear message:
“Ethics is not an optional extra—it is the foundation of long-term success.”
Pattanayak challenges the false dichotomy between profit and purpose, arguing that leaders who root decisions in moral clarity and ethical duty not only build sustainable organizations but also inspire empowered, resilient teams.
Practical Takeaways for Leaders
The book offers far more than philosophical reflection—it delivers specific, actionable tools that leaders can immediately apply:
Using your Dharma as a North Star to guide strategic choices beyond short-term gains.
Practical methods for navigating conflicts of interest where loyalty and ethics seem at odds.
Case-based scenarios and reflection prompts to sharpen ethical decision-making.
Such a framework helps leaders see themselves not just as managers of profit but as stewards of people, principles, and progress.
Early Reception and Academic Interest
Since its release, The Dharma Code has resonated strongly with corporate leaders, management trainers, and academics. Many have praised its storytelling approach—bringing ancient epics to life alongside modern business scenarios—making complex ethics relatable for professionals.
Several top business schools are already considering it for inclusion in their ethics and leadership curriculum, citing its potential to shape the next generation of leaders. Leadership development programs are incorporating its case studies to help executives lead with clarity and conviction, even in high-pressure situations.
A Personal Mission
For Pattanayak, The Dharma Code is not just another professional milestone—it is a personal mission. His passion for ancient wisdom runs deep, and his corporate experience has shown him first-hand how values-driven leadership is the key to lasting impact.
“This isn’t about looking backward for inspiration,” he explains. “It’s about using timeless principles to build organizations that are future-ready, resilient, and successful in every sense.”
The Provocative Question at the Heart of the Book
The Dharma Code reframes leadership as a deeply personal and moral journey.
It asks every leader a provocative, empowering question:
What legacy will you leave—profits or principles?
By confronting this question, the book inspires leaders to see their professional life as an epic series of purposeful choices. Through its stories, frameworks, and practical exercises, it equips them with the wisdom and tools to find their own answers—answers that align with both ethical integrity and competitive strength.
Final Word
As the pace of change accelerates and stakes rise in every industry, The Dharma Code offers a timely reminder:
Leadership is not about domination—it’s about duty.
And in that duty lies the true code for lasting success.
For corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to align professional achievement with moral clarity, The Dharma Code is not just a book—it is a guide, a mirror, and a call to action.
About the Author:
Anupam Pattanayak (AP) is a corporate strategist, consultant, and leadership mentor with nearly 30 years of experience. An alumnus of IIFT–New Delhi and IIM–Calcutta, he has advised top corporations, mentored startups, and worked across industries and geographies. His passion lies in blending timeless wisdom with modern leadership challenges to create organizations that thrive with integrity.
