Lessons in Global Relations from India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar

How do the lessons of ancient diplomacy play out on the global stage today? What can modern diplomats learn from the strategic finesse of figures like Lord Krishna, Lord Hanuman, and Angad? In an increasingly complex world, the guiding principles of mythological diplomacy find new life in the hands of India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. Through his calculated maneuvers and relationships with global powers, Jaishankar has applied timeless lessons to shape India’s geopolitical landscape. Let’s delve into how he has drawn from these ancient lessons in forging connections, asserting India’s values, and protecting its interests on a global scale.

1. Projecting Strength & Self-Reliance
    (Inspired by Lord Krishna’s Role in the Mahabharata)

Example: In line with Krishna’s principle of strength tempered with wisdom, Jaishankar has championed India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy, especially in defense partnerships. India has balanced relations between Russia (an old ally) and the U.S. by making decisions that prioritize national interests, such as continuing to procure essential defense equipment from Russia despite Western pressure.

Application: Like Krishna's strategy of fostering self-reliance within the Pandavas, Jaishankar emphasizes an independent foreign policy, signaling that India will not be swayed by any single power’s influence.

2. Maintaining Poise Amidst Provocation
    (Drawing from Angad’s Mission to Ravana)

Example: When Canada accused India of involvement in a sensitive case, Jaishankar’s response was balanced, emphasizing mutual respect while countering unjust accusations. This restraint was reminiscent of Angad’s calm in Ravana’s court, showing strength without descending into aggression.

Application: The lesson here is one of maintaining dignity and composure under duress — a skill that Jaishankar has mastered, defusing tensions while reiterating India’s commitment to upholding its sovereignty.

3. Exercising Firmness with Respect
    (Inspired by Hanuman’s Interaction with Ravana)

Example: During negotiations with the United States and China on contentious issues, Jaishankar has been vocal yet respectful, underscoring India’s stance on territorial integrity and its rights. This diplomacy reflects Hanuman’s respectful yet firm confrontation with Ravana.

Application: By balancing firmness with decorum, Jaishankar ensures that India’s position remains clear and respected, without alienating powerful nations that India must work with on various fronts.

4. Embracing Non-Alignment & Neutrality
   (Krishna’s Principle of Strategic Neutrality)

Example: As the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensified, India maintained a non-aligned stance, focusing on humanitarian aid rather than taking sides. Jaishankar’s approach mirrors Krishna’s strategic neutrality, staying aligned with India’s values of peace and sovereignty.

Application: This neutral stance allows India to maintain strong relationships with both Eastern and Western allies, ensuring it can act as a mediator in global conflicts rather than a partisan actor.

5. Building Alliances Through Mutual Interests
    (Krishna’s Alliance-Building Tactics)

Example: Jaishankar’s deepened engagements with Israel and Saudi Arabia demonstrate his focus on mutual benefits. By strengthening ties through technology, defense, and energy, he mirrors Krishna’s alliances with key players in the Mahabharata.

Application: Building alliances on shared interests ensures stable, long-term partnerships, helping India bolster its standing in the Middle East and beyond.

6. Utilizing Symbolism & Presence
    (Inspired by Angad’s Bold Symbolism)

Example: Jaishankar’s participation in global forums, including the G20 and BRICS, where he asserts India’s unique position, reflects Angad’s immovable presence in Ravana’s court.

Application: These actions show that India is a significant player with its own voice, demanding equal respect and consideration on the world stage.

7. Encouraging Regional Unity
   (Krishna’s Principle of Unity Among Allies)

Example: By strengthening ties with neighboring countries, like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, Jaishankar fosters regional unity. This approach is reminiscent of Krishna’s emphasis on unity among allies to ensure the strength of the Pandavas.

Application: By building a cohesive South Asia, Jaishankar ensures stability and collective strength in a region often subject to external influences.

8. Projecting Moral Authority & Ethics
   (Echoing Krishna’s Dharma-Based Diplomacy)

Example: India’s strong stance on global climate action showcases its commitment to ethical leadership, similar to Krishna’s promotion of Dharma. Jaishankar’s advocacy for climate justice emphasizes that developed nations should take greater responsibility, reflecting a moral high ground.

Application: By promoting ethical values, India positions itself as a leader committed to global welfare, rather than self-interest.

9. Balancing Compromise & Firm Boundaries
   (Hanuman’s Negotiation Tactics)

Example: In dealings with the European Union on trade, Jaishankar balances compromise with firm demands. Like Hanuman in Ravana’s court, he emphasizes mutually beneficial terms while protecting Indian interests.

Application: This strategy of balanced negotiation establishes India as flexible yet non-exploitable, setting the foundation for fair international agreements.

10. Implementing Quiet Persistence
      (Inspired by Angad’s Persistence)

Example: The pursuit of membership in key global bodies, such as the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), illustrates Jaishankar’s persistence. He continues to advocate for inclusion, akin to Angad’s unyielding resolve in Ravana’s court.

Application: Persistence pays off in diplomacy, as consistent efforts eventually lead to breakthroughs and recognition, no matter the initial resistance.

11. Encouraging Diplomacy Over Conflict
      (Following Krishna’s Peaceful Intentions)

Example: Jaishankar’s diplomacy in the Middle East, especially with Iran and Saudi Arabia, promotes peacebuilding rather than divisive politics. This aligns with Krishna’s continuous attempts for peace before the Kurukshetra war.

Application: Diplomatic ties with adversarial nations foster stability, paving the way for collaboration and reducing conflicts.

12. Taking Calculated Risks
      (Inspired by Hanuman’s Bold Leap to Lanka)

Example: India’s decision to continue importing Russian oil amidst Western sanctions is a calculated risk, ensuring energy security. Like Hanuman’s bold journey, it reflects Jaishankar’s willingness to take risks for essential national interests.

Application: Calculated risks in diplomacy, when guided by necessity, reinforce a nation’s priorities without compromising its global standing.

13. Representing Loyalty to National Interests
      (Mirroring Angad’s Loyalty to Rama)

Example: Jaishankar’s unwavering commitment to India’s economic and security interests reflects Angad’s loyalty. This loyalty strengthens India’s global image, showcasing it as a country that will not compromise its integrity.

Application: Loyalty to core national values builds credibility and respect, cementing India’s trustworthiness as an international partner.

14. Navigating Controversy with Grace
      (Inspired by Krishna’s Grace in Tense Moments)

Example: Jaishankar’s composed response to international criticism, especially regarding India’s neutral stance on global conflicts, reflects Krishna’s poise under scrutiny.

Application: Grace under pressure allows diplomats to manage controversies without escalating tensions, reinforcing trustworthiness.

15. Implementing Strategic Silence
      (Mirroring Hanuman’s Observant Approach in Lanka)

Example: In certain diplomatic issues, such as escalating tensions in disputed territories, Jaishankar’s approach of strategic silence aligns with Hanuman’s observant stance.

Application: Sometimes, silence is the most effective tool in diplomacy, allowing for observation and timing to guide responses.

Final Thoughts: Lessons for Modern Diplomats from Ancient Wisdom

Krishna’s diplomacy, particularly his nuanced strategies in the Mahabharata, remains highly relevant in today’s geopolitical landscape. His balance of pragmatism, ethical considerations, and foresight offers a timeless template for modern diplomats. Krishna’s key principles — such as forming alliances based on mutual benefit, prioritizing peaceful solutions, and employing strategic silence when needed — encourage leaders to value resilience and moral strength over sheer force. Additionally, His adaptability and wisdom in navigating complex alliances remind modern diplomats of the power of flexibility, negotiation, and long-term vision in global relations. 

Similarly, Hanuman’s diplomacy offers valuable lessons on loyalty, adaptability, and courageous communication that can inspire leaders today. In the Ramayana, He served Lord Rama with both conviction and discernment, showing that a true diplomat must be both faithful to their mission and flexible in their approach. His ability to blend humility with strategic assertiveness — such as when He calmly presented Rama’s message to Ravana while assessing the situation — illustrates the power of confidence and tact.

Today’s leaders can learn from Hanuman’s unwavering focus on purpose, His willingness to take calculated risks, and his respect for both friend and foe. His example encourages leaders to act with resilience and to make balanced choices, even when navigating difficult scenarios. For instance, during critical negotiations, they can channel Hanuman’s calm assertiveness and prioritize ethical responsibility, creating diplomacy that builds trust and enduring partnerships.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s approach in maintaining balanced relationships with nations like the U.S., Russia, and China echoes Krishna’s tactics, emphasizing a multipolar and sovereign-focused foreign policy. This reflects Krishna’s essence of choosing actions that ensure stability, honor, and respect, which helps build sustainable, resilient partnerships in today’s intricate global landscape.

As the world becomes increasingly polarized, India’s approach under S. Jaishankar shows that diplomacy can still be a tool for peace, strength, and morality. Can today’s diplomats find inspiration in ancient tales, leveraging the balance of firmness and wisdom to navigate the intricate maze of global politics? Is it possible to honor history while pioneering a future grounded in integrity and resilience? As we reflect on these examples, it is clear that the lessons from Krishna, Hanuman, and Angad continue to illuminate the path forward, urging today’s leaders to choose diplomacy rooted in values, strategy, and strength.