‘Having seen Ram’s leadership skills in Bal and Ayodhya Kands, I am curious to know further, VR!’ exclaimed Maanav.‘Sure, Maanav. When Ram was in the forest, the rishis told him about the suffering they were undergoing due to the Rakshasas. Ram immediately took charge of the situation and promised to protect the rishis. There was no need for Ram to do so as he was not in any official capacity there, yet he assumed responsibility, which is a sign of an innate leader.‘It always felt natural to me that Ram, being the hero, would take on the evil, but now that I think of it, he had no obligation to do so. It was his choice.’ quipped Maanav.‘After losing Sita, Ram lost his composure several times, yet he managed to control himself with the help of Lakshman’s counsel. A good leader needs to have trusted people around them, who will correct them if they lose their way. Of course, the leader should listen to them even if they are junior to them, as Ram did.’‘Fantastic. Please continue VR.’‘After forming an alliance with Sugreev and defeating Vali, He allowed Sugreev time to recover himself and gather the forces. He also allowed Sugreev to take the lead in managing his troops, never trying to infringe upon Sugreev’s leadership.’.‘A leader who respects other leaders and gives them space is very rare indeed!’‘Rama also recognised Hanuman’s special talents and entrusted him with more responsibility than others. He also openly acknowledged Hanuman’s achievements. Whether it is accepting Vibheeshan into their side, figuring out how to cross the ocean, or making strategies to attack Lanka, Ram always consulted his allies and valued their opinions.’‘A complete 180 to Ravana’s unilateral decisions that he imposed upon all others!’‘Ram’s highest test of leadership, though, came once he returned to Ayodhya and became its King,’ opined VR!(To be continued…)