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Article

An Eye Opener solution

to depression - Krishna’s

approach towards Arjun’s problem

CA Mitesh Vinod Katira

On the landmark occasion of the annual conference This brings us to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita,
organised by the BCICAI, here is a special edition of which provides invaluable wisdom in the realm of
the series KrishanKon for the avid Entrepreneurship problem-solving. Just as Lord Krishna guided Arjuna to
or a CXO level job is inherently a journey of problem- face the monumental challenges of the Mahabharata
solving and value creation. Every business model with courage and determination, we too can glean
hinges on addressing a specific problem or need important lessons from this ancient text.
within a target customer base. The art of problem- In Chapter 2, Krishna introduced the concept of
solving is central to our roles as business owners or “विषमे समुपस्थितम्,” which essentially means
CXOs, as it is inextricably linked to value creation. standing firm in the face of adversity. He motivated
There is some tightrope situation coming up daily Arjuna, instilled a sense of purpose in him, and
which creates depression and decision paralyses. helped him overcome his doubts and fears. Krishna
Sometimes, we one may feel dejected and wants to emphasized the art of balance and introduced the
run away from the situation with a flowery reason. concept of Karma-Yoga, the art of performing one’s

Drawing from my extensive experience, both as an duties without undue anxiety.
advisor and as a partner in our firm, I recognize the Krishna’s teachings in the Gita offer valuable
myriad challenges that entrepreneurs encounter insights for effective problem-solving:
in this problem-solving process. These challenges
often manifest as dilemmas, such as the choice 1. Establish the exact dilemma: Like Arjun, most of
between acting swiftly or patiently, partnering, or the time we don’t understand the issue that is to
going solo, scaling up or staying niche, relying on be resolved. In Arjun’s case, he discussed all the
loans or using our own funds, adopting a generous reasons why he doesn’t want to fight his own kins
or a more conservative approach, prioritizing in the great war of Mahabharat. Here he seem to
speed or accuracy, balancing relationships and have missed out the entire Dharma part which is
commercial interests, embracing modern or the core reason of the war and thinks that he is
traditional work methodologies, and managing doing it just for the meagre kingship.
operational (OPEX) and capital (CAPEX) expenses. 2. Avoid Escapism: Easiest route to our depression
The inclination to view problems as impediments is to escape from the situation instead of facing it.
to growth is a common sentiment, but it is crucial Our mind can creatively write a thesis like Arjun as
to recognize that, in many cases, problems are the to why we want to run away. We wrongly identify
crucible in which growth is forged. Entrepreneurs this running away as “Tyag” or renunciation. Krishna
must confront these issues head-on, responding to emphasizes that running away from challenges
them with a methodical and structured approach is not an option, even if one seeks renunciation
rather than evading them. (Tyag) or detachment (Sanyas).

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