Mandala art has its origins in ancient spiritual traditions, symbolizing wholeness, interconnectedness, and the journey toward self-realization. Found in Hinduism and Buddhism, mandalas serve as meditative tools, guiding the practitioner toward higher consciousness. The circular form represents the universe, with layers unfolding from the periphery to the center—just as our own understanding of self and purpose deepens through practice and discipline.
This particular mandala, meticulously crafted by my colleague Priya Agarwal —one of the most joyful individuals at Kariwala Industries Ltd —is not just a piece of art but a profound representation of the philosophy of Business Yoga.
The eight concentric circles embody the Ashtanga Yoga framework, the eight limbs of yoga that I have explored in my book. Each layer is a step on the journey, from the foundational ethical principles of Yama to the ultimate state of Samadhi, where individual consciousness merges with the infinite. The outermost circle, symbolizing Yama, is not just the first limb but also resonates with the thousand-petaled Sahasrara, the crown energy center associated with transcendence. As the circles move inward, they depict increasing concentration and refinement, mirroring the progressive deepening of both yoga and business mastery.
At the heart of this mandala sits a business-suited woman—an embodiment of feminine energy, Shakti, without which Srishti (creation) cannot take place. This is a reminder that in both yoga and business, the balance of energies, intuition, and nurturing leadership is essential for sustained growth and transformation.
Just as a mandala draws the observer inward, Business Yoga is a path that integrates mindfulness, ethical leadership, and strategic execution to create enterprises that are not just profitable but also purposeful. The journey through these eight limbs is not just theoretical—it is a practice, a discipline, and ultimately, a state of being.
