Think Like a Sage, Lead Like a CEO: Ancient Indian Wisdom for Modern Leadership
In a market saturated with Western leadership models and Silicon Valley playbooks, Sidhharrth S Kumaar's latest book, "Think Like a Sage, Lead Like a CEO," offers a refreshingly unique perspective rooted in ancient Indian wisdom. Released in 2025, the book bridges the gap between timeless Vedic intelligence and the demands of modern executive leadership, making it an original entry in the business/self-help genre this year.
The core of the book revolves around "Tantrayukti," a Sanskrit term referring to 32 structured methods of reasoning and persuasion traditionally used in ancient Indian scriptures. Kumaar reimagines these principles as powerful tools for modern leaders facing high-stakes decisions, strategic ambiguity, and organizational complexity.
Designed as a 30-day transformation program, the book is not a passive read. Each chapter introduces a specific Tantrayukti, demystifies its traditional use, and applies it to contemporary business challenges. The author weaves in real-world business cases to anchor his philosophical insights in practical relevance, making the book part leadership manual, part philosophical treatise, and part strategic toolkit.
What sets "Think Like a Sage, Lead Like a CEO" apart is its multidimensional value. It remains remarkably accessible despite avoiding academic jargon, using bite-sized chapters, reflection prompts, and summaries to ensure readers of all backgrounds can extract value. The book demands active engagement, calling readers to think, reflect, and implement.
Another strength lies in its broad appeal, speaking not just to CXOs, startup founders, and strategy consultants but also to "conscious thinkers" – those in pursuit of purpose-driven leadership. Kumaar equips readers with tools and a worldview: leadership as service, rooted in wisdom and inner balance.
However, the book may challenge readers unfamiliar with Eastern philosophies, requiring them to recalibrate their mindset. Despite this, those willing to make the leap will find a leadership lens that is both deeply human and radically effective.
As AI, uncertainty, and burnout dominate the business landscape, "Think Like a Sage, Lead Like a CEO" presents a compelling call to slow down, think deeply, and lead wisely. It invites readers to replace reactive decisions with resilient thinking, transactional ambition with timeless purpose – making it an essential read for those seeking effective leadership in today's fast-paced world.
Book Review:
Sidhharrth S Kumaar's "Think Like a Sage, Lead Like a CEO" is a thought-provoking and practical guide for leaders looking to reconnect with their inner wisdom. By weaving together ancient Indian principles with modern business challenges, the book offers a refreshing perspective on leadership that is both accessible and inspiring.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars