Management Lessons from Indian Epics: A Hybrid Review

Abstract

Using a hybrid systematic literature review guided by the TCCM (theory–context–characteristics–methodology) framework, we examine 584 articles, delivering management insights from Hindu epic texts, published between 1843 and 2024. The findings highlight emerging topics such as gender issues and the evolving role of women, which, as of now, remain underexplored. Moreover, theories such as karma and gunas remain prominent, with most of the research concentrated in Western countries, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. Existing research predominantly uses conceptual and qualitative methods, focusing on key themes such as ethics, cultural history and leadership. Accordingly, we propose nine future research agendas.