THE NATURE OF DHARMA, DUTY, AND LEADERSHIP IN THE BHISHMA PARVA

Abstract

The Mahabharata is an invaluable heritage of Indian culture, philosophy, and ethical thought. Among its eighteen Parvas (books), the Bhishma Parva holds a special place, as it presents an integrated perspective on Dharma (righteousness/duty), duty, leadership, and a spiritual worldview. This Parva contains the divine teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, which is considered a foundational text of Indian philosophy. The present research paper offers a critical study of the concepts of Dharma, the sense of duty, and leadership as expounded in the Bhishma Parva. The study reveals that the Bhishma Parva does not merely describe a war; rather, it presents ideals regarding human values, ethical decision-making, and responsible leadership. In this Parva, Dharma is interpreted within the broad context of duty, justice, truth, and public welfare. Furthermore, it provides practical guidance for human life through principles such as Nishkama Karma (selfless action), self-restraint, and leadership. Even in the modern era, its teachings remain equally relevant for ethical leadership, social responsibility, and personal development.