Leaders inspire IIT Delhi students with lessons on success and failure at book launch

‘Sing, Dance and Lead: Leadership Lessons from the Teachings of Srila Prabhupada’ by Dr. Hindol Sengupta was launched at IIT Delhi in February in the presence of students, faculty, scholars and an eclectic panel of distinguished leaders at a discussion titled “Leading in Success and Failure – Unique Indian Perspectives.” Dr. Sengupta draws insights from Srila Prabhupada’s unique leadership style in his book, which offers practical wisdom rooted in Srila Prabhupada’s teachings to help maintain equanimity and well-being across all facets of life.

The event opened with Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, who offered young IITians powerful insights on leadership, resilience and navigating crises. Drawing from personal experience, he highlighted three foundational elements of success and said, “Firstly, one should have the courage of conviction and a vision. Secondly, create a team that shares the vision and has the talent to bring it together. And finally, one should be able to stand firm and not give up, even if things are not going the right way or are completely sinking.”

Reflecting on the ideas behind the book, the multiple award-winning author and historian, explained why Srila Prabhupada’s leadership stands as a timeless example. Describing him as one of India’s greatest spiritual entrepreneurs, he said, “In today’s world, everyone claims to be a pioneer.” Yet Srila Prabhupada insisted he was only passing on the knowledge he received, using innovation solely to enhance his ability to serve. Crossing oceans at 70 to spread India’s spiritual wisdom, his journey offers invaluable lessons for today’s aspiring leaders.

Speaking about the growing pressure on students to excel, Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, emphasised the importance of collaboration over competition. He noted that the future workforce requires teamwork, shared goals and mutual support, adding that institutions must encourage cooperation to build resilient, value-driven leaders. The panel also heard compelling stories of purpose-driven leadership from the founders of The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Founder & Chairman of The Akshaya Patra Foundation and President of ISKCON Bangalore, shared how discovering Srila Prabhupada’s writings during his IIT Bombay days transformed his life. Highlighting India’s spiritual heritage, he said, “Our Indian leadership, Indian knowledge, takes one beyond fulfilling one’s destiny, discovers who he is, and then broadens his perspective as being part and parcel of entire humanity, and therefore serves humanity. That brings the greatest satisfaction to the self. This kind of leadership knowledge exists only in India.”

Echoing this, Shri Chanchalapathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice Chairman of Akshaya Patra and Senior Vice President of ISKCON Bangalore, spoke about spirituality as a force for expansive, impactful action. Referencing Srila Prabhupada’s metaphor of “catching a rhinoceros instead of a rabbit,” he said, “Spirituality is not actually about limiting ourselves, our thinking. It is about doing something impactful on a big scale in a very sustainable way to the whole of humanity… Spirituality teaches that we should do our duty very sincerely and earnestly without expecting results. And then there is a divine force that makes many things happen.”Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”