ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Formation of Different Types Vyuha and Strategic Management: Special Reference to Kurukskhetra War

The Kurukshetra War, as narrated in the Mahabharata, is a repository of strategic and tactical brilliance, where the concept of Vyuha (battle formations) played a pivotal role in determining the course of the conflict. Vyuhas were not merely military arrangements but comprehensive strategic frameworks, integrating planning, resource allocation, leadership, and adaptability—principles that resonate with modern strategic management. This study explores the various Vyuhas employed during the Kurukshetra War, such as the Chakravyuha, Makara Vyuh, Shakata Vyuh, and Sarvatomukha Vyuh, analyzing their objectives, structure, and execution. It emphasizes the foresight of commanders like Dronacharya, Krishna, and Bhishma in designing flexible and situationally appropriate strategies to outmaneuver opponents. The paper draws parallels between these ancient strategies and modern management models like SWOT analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, and Mintzberg’s Schools of Strategy, showcasing how the principles of positioning, competitive advantage, and coordinated leadership remain timeless. By linking historical military intelligence with contemporary strategic thinking, this research highlights how Vyuhas continue to serve as a blueprint for decision-making and competitive success in diverse fields, including business, governance, and organizational leadership.