The Devine Connection

We just observed the auspicious occasion of Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Navratri and the invocation of goddess Durga to descend to earth. In my alumni group, we usually discuss Navratri, but this year, Mahalaya sparked some interesting conversations. One thought that stood out was how it signifies the transition from preparation to action.

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From a leadership perspective, Mahalaya serves as a powerful metaphor. Just as Durga is called upon at the most critical moment, leaders often have to step in during times of crisis or transition. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about providing clarity, making decisive choices, and guiding the team after weeks of strategizing. This is when leaders shift from planning to execution, bringing their vision to life.

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Another key takeaway- Durga didn’t fight alone. She wielded weapons gifted by different gods, a collaboration that represents the strength in diversity. It’s a reminder that effective leaders don’t work in isolation. They pull from the diverse strengths, ideas, and perspectives of their teams- allowing for more comprehensive decision-making and innovative solutions, which connects beautifully to the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).? Mahalaya teaches us that leadership is a collective effort, built on courage, collaboration, and clarity. Also, it is not just about being at the front but lifting up everyone around you for shared success.

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This resonates deeply with my personal experience too. I recently collaborated with someone to launch a venture I’ve been dreaming of for years. At first, it was overwhelming—the volume of decisions, the pressure to assemble a strong team, finalize designs, and manage production. But once I had the right people in place, it all began to flow. We approved the designs, samples are in progress, and the collective strength of the team has propelled the project forward. It's a powerful reminder that success isn’t about going it alone—it’s about harnessing the collective energy to move closer to your goals.

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As you reflect upon Mahalaya, ask yourself- how often do you pause to consider: Are you truly embracing the collective strengths of those around you, or are you still carrying the weight of leadership alone?