N. R. Narayana Murthy, one of the first pioneers of the Indian IT industry writes that Gandhi's autobiography was one of the seminal books which influenced his thinking deeply about equitable economic progress in our country. He writes "Mahatma Gandhi opened my eyes to the importance of good leadership by example", meaning opting for a simple lifestyle. Narayana Murthy has been conspicuous in this endeavour by continuing a relatively Spartan lifestyle (compared with his fellow billionaires). He had been fortunate that his wife, Sudha, also subscribes to this philosophy. Provision of employment to thousands globally & wide spread philanthropic activities are the achievements of this exemplary couple.
Adoor Gopalakrishnan, the internationally acclaimed film director, was deeply influenced by Gandhi, right from his schooldays. In fact the whole family were devastated by his assassination in 1948. This real life incident finds a cinematic life in his "Kathapurushan". So Adoor joined the Gandhigram Rural Institute & studied public administration, economics & political science with a Gandhian slant. Because of his interest in theatre, he applied to the Film & Television Institute, topped the written test & viva voce exams & was awarded a merit scholarship & the rest is history. All of his films contain elements of Gandhian thought. Even his home doesn't have an electric bell but a cord operated temple bell!
Mahatma Gandhi's insights can even be relevant in a pan-international context.
"The wise leadership & light-handed government described by Lao-tse & practiced by Mahatma Gandhi will be universal" says Benjamin Hoff in his "The Te of Piglet."
"India's contribution to universal commonwealth may be styled "Gandhian International" founded on 5000 years of Indian recorded history, comprising eternal values of truth & non-violence" writes Dr. S. Srikanta Sastri, the eminent historian.
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