About the Simha

The Lion (Simha in Hindi / Sanskrit) occupies a special aura. In every culture and civilization, the Lion has been revered as a symbol of Leadership, Grace and Power. A group of Lions, not surprisingly, is referred to as a "pride", reflecting the complex synergy as a team in their collective social and relationship skills.

In ancient Indian mythology, there is a detailed mention across many a works of art and poems about the unique nature of the Lions's gaze - or the "Simhavalokana" in Sanskrit.

It is said, as the Lions walk away from their partly devoured kill, after some distance, they have a curious habit of pausing, turning back and looking intently at the whole landscape - as if deeply in thought, taking in the entire panorama and introspecting on the recent sequence of events. This habit of Lions is known as the "Simhavalokana" - the Lion's gaze. The stoic-calm and feline gaze in complete command is regarded as the manifestation of a Thought Leader. Many cultures depict Lion in various forms to depict strength and as a symbol of authority and command over subconscious thought.

In a simile, a Leader's ability to periodically pause, and in a calm demeanor introspect and connect with the abstract between past, present and future is an invaluable quality. It is this ability that helps a leader learn from the past, be fully in the present, and steel their nerves for the uncertain future, that commands the readiness and confidence for their team's tomorrow's success.

Team Simhavalokana takes pride in the inspiration that the majestic Simha evokes!

Few other interesting facts of the majestic Simha

It is said that the Lion has many a unique set of habits, akin to modern Leadership skills. Few are mentioned here.

• A Lion hunts not to kill or for fun, but only as food or when threatened, reflecting its resourcefulness and consideration for nature and other living beings - a hallmark of leadership. A Lion is even known to have sometimes let go of small fawns or a buffalo calf, when they are not hungry !
• A Lion always hunts in pride (pack of lions) - each member contributing according to its skills, to either herd, corner, chase or pounce as it may be, reflecting the spirit of team work through maximizing individual strength of each team member.
• A Lion never reverts to its earlier kill, unlike some other big cats. When it is ready for the next bout, it goes for a fresh kill, reflecting a progressive mindset as against a fixed mindset.
• A pride of lion never completely devours the kill, it always leaves a part or morsels for other scavengers and smaller animals, reflecting empathy and selflessness towards others.
• A Lion wields power with elan and grace. The self confidence at all times - even when lazing around - is a hallmark of Leadership.
• A Lion's ability to introspect at the end of every kill is compared to retrospection and introspection - an invaluable quality of leaders.
• There is no mercy in a pride. Only the most capable Lion by demonstrated and proven delivery capability rises to be the Alpha Lion. Leadership is not about promotions or being appointed the head of a team. Leadership comes from acceptance of accountability, and acceptance as a leader by the team.
• The Alpha Lion is accountable for outcome of the team; and if is unable to deliver with the changing times, a new Alpha Lion takes charge.

Let us know what you think about the Lions and their inspiring majestic habits - we will be happy to hear from you!