Spiritual Leadership in Baul Folk Traditions: A Cross-Cultural Framework for Creative Organisations

Abstract

This article explores the intersection of spiritual leadership principles and the Baul folk tradition of Bangladesh, proposing a cross-cultural framework that benefits creative organisations in North America and beyond. Drawing upon established scholarship in spiritual leadership and on Baul studies, the discussion revolves around eight core themes—Emphasis on Meaning and Purpose, Values-Centred Leadership, Culture of Compassion, Promotion of Inner Well-Being, Empowerment Through Service, Shared Vision, Ethical Orientation, and Fostering Hope and Faith. Each theme is illustrated with original songs by Baul composers, including Baul Lalon Shah (1774-1890), Baul Duddu Shah (1841-1911), Baul Panju Shah (1851-1914), Baul Shahadat Karim, Baul Mokoddos Alam Udasin (1948-2022), Baul Abdur Rahman, Baul Khoda Box (1928-1990), and Baul Shah Abdul Karim (1916-2009). Although these compositions are rooted in the Baul folk tradition, this article demonstrates how they can be applied to leadership development in North American creative organisations. By outlining the Bauls’ guru–disciple model and by integrating my own ethnographic research with Baul communities, the article underscores how Baul spirituality resonates with modern calls for workplace compassion, purpose, and ethical consciousness.