The vast scope of the Mahabharata is often distilled down to the massive conflict on the fields of Kurukshetra. Yet, some of its most practical wisdom is found in the quiet moments of testing—moments that reveal the true character behind the crown.
One such moment occurs when the Pandavas, exiled and desperately thirsty, stumble upon a mysterious pool. Ignoring the warning of the resident Yaksha (a celestial spirit), four of the five brothers drink the water and instantly collapse, lifeless.
Only Yudhishthira, the eldest and embodiment of Dharma, approaches the pool with respect. He agrees to answer the Yaksha’s deadly riddles before drinking. He passes the test, proving his wisdom, and the Yaksha—who is revealed to be Dharma himself—offers Yudhishthira a single wish: to revive one of his fallen brothers.
The obvious choice would be Arjuna, the unparalleled archer, or Bhima, the powerhouse of strength, both essential for winning the coming war. Any modern manager or strategist would prioritize the most valuable assets. But Yudhishthira made the unexpected choice: he asked for Nakula to be revived.
The Yaksha was astonished. He asked why Yudhishthira would choose the son of Madri (his stepmother) over his full brothers, the pillars of the family’s strength.
Yudhishthira’s answer provides an enduring lesson in impartial leadership and true fairness, or equity. He explained that Kunti, his own mother, still had one surviving son (himself). If Nakula perished, Madri would lose all her progeny. To maintain the balance of the family line—to ensure both mothers had a son to light their path—he chose Nakula.
This lesson transcends simple loyalty; it teaches us that true justice is not merely serving self-interest or maximizing immediate gain. It is about actively balancing the scales to ensure proportional representation and systemic fairness across all divisions, groups, or stakeholders.
In your modern teams and relationships, are you focused on maximizing your own gain, or are you prioritizing the equitable balance of the entire system?
Equity requires a willingness to sacrifice personal advantage for systemic harmony.