Adil Malia
Apr 15, 20191 min
'Vaakya Kaushala' ... the Speech Expert !
Eloquence in speech is a capability derived from digested knowledge says Rama to Laxman whilst defining virtues of a good Speaker. Rama assessed Hanumana as a 'Vaakyaa Kaushala ' - a speech expert
The 5 virtues of an effective communicator identified by Rama for his assessment of Hanumana are distilled as benchmarks for our Management learning :
1. A brilliant speaker should reflect deep body of knowledge (ideally derived from study of the four Vedas : 'Rig-Atharva-Yajur-Sama'). No knowledge, no speech.
2. Speaker should be Humble :
Humility 'vinayata' needs to flow from the outlook of his speech despite expert knowledge. Desire to Convince should be the purpose.
3.Speaker's body posture should support his speech & not distract attention
4.Effective speaker should have a 'Melodious lilt' in his voice & should deliver with consistent speed, right volume & charm.
5. Speech should be delivered with Clear
Vocabulary, supple eloquence & charm. Superfiscial drama should be avoided.
Ability to effectively communicate & present well to various stake-holders, is a 'Critical Success Criteria'. All known Competency Models, without fail include it. The 5 wise virtues carved from the epic may help us understand a little better.