Western thought on leadership is trait-oriented; it emphasizes the importance of ‘being a leader’. Indian leadership offers a contrast―it focuses on the ‘exercise of leadership’. Power Within introspects on this practice as it captures the civilizational wisdom of Bharat through the lived experience of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The book delves into the fifty years of his public life and explores how he discovered his purpose, the seeds of which were sown in his formative years. Poignant anecdotes from his colleagues shed light on how his relentless hard work and communicative approach propelled him to the prime ministerial post. They also underscore his constant quest for self-discovery in the service of others.
In a carefully crafted narrative, R. Balasubramaniam captures Modi’s leadership journey and interprets it through Western and Indic lenses, amalgamating them to provide a road map for those who aspire to a life of public service.
" Balu brings a valuable background to this study of Modi as a leader.I have known Balu since his days at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, which is now more than fifteen years ago.
I have followed his career closely as he returned to India to continue pursuing his initiatives that give citizens more transparency into how their government works and more agency to advocate for themselves."
He is the founder of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement and the Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement, both of which have been instrumental in advancing community-driven development and policy advocacy in India. A former Rhodes Professor at Cornell University, USA, he has coached and mentored senior leaders across the non-profit, corporate, government, and education sectors globally, and has regularly conducted leadership workshops for institutions in India and abroad.
His academic journey began with a medical degree (MBBS) from Mysore Medical College, followed by an MPhil in Hospital Administration and Health Systems Management from BITS, Pilani. He later pursued a Master's in Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, where he was a Mason Fellow. He holds a PhD in Leadership and Management. He has also received an honorary doctorate from the Government of Karnataka's Nrupatunga University for his social work and tribal development.
Dr. Balu served as Member (HR) at the Capacity Building Commission, Government of India, from its inception until April 2026, contributing to strengthening the capabilities of the country's civil service. He also serves as Chairperson of the Social Stock Exchange Advisory Committee.
He has authored nine books in Kannada and English. His recent work, Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi, examines leadership through the lens of contemporary Indian governance. Three of his earlier books - I, the Citizen, Voices from the Grassroots, and Leadership Lessons for Daily Living, have received global acclaim for their insights into citizenship, grassroots realities, and values-based leadership.
“In case of any enquiries, please reach out through the coordinates provided
powerwithinrbalu@gmail.com
