#Review: Itihaas by Sridhar Rammurthy

Itihaas: A Performance Model for Modern Leadership 
Author: Sridhar Rammurthy
Publisher: Rupa Publications
Rating: 4/5

Leadership books often promise revolutionary frameworks, but Itihaas takes a refreshingly different route. Instead of chasing the latest corporate buzzwords, Sridhar Rammurthy turns to India’s civilizational wisdom, drawing from texts like the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita to build a thoughtful model for modern leadership. Rather than treating these epics as mythology, he presents them as case studies in decision-making, clarity, and human behaviour.

What impressed me most was how accessible the writing is. Despite dealing with philosophy, neuroscience, and leadership theory, the language remains conversational and free of unnecessary jargon. The chapters are well-paced, and concepts are reinforced through contemporary examples, making the book relevant even for readers outside the corporate world.

One of my favourite aspects of the book is its visual presentation. Scattered throughout the chapters are charming minimalist illustrations and icons that break up dense sections of text. These small visual elements don’t merely decorate the pages—they reinforce key ideas, make concepts easier to remember, and lend the book a clean, inviting aesthetic. The dialogue pages, summary tables, and reflection prompts further transform the reading experience from passive consumption into active engagement.

The layout is equally thoughtful. Short sections, bullet points, chapter summaries, and “Points to Ponder” encourage readers to pause and reflect instead of rushing through the material. It feels like a workbook as much as a leadership guide.

If I had one criticism, it would be that some concepts are revisited multiple times, which occasionally slows the momentum. Readers looking for highly practical, step-by-step management strategies may also find the book more reflective than tactical.

Overall, Itihaas is less about becoming a better manager and more about becoming a more conscious decision-maker. Whether you’re a leader, educator, entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in understanding how clarity shapes action, this book offers a refreshing perspective rooted in timeless wisdom while remaining firmly grounded in the demands of the modern world.

Find this book here.