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Sudama, Krishna & the Power of Meaningful Networking: What We Must Learn

Some stories stay with us not just because of the characters, but because they mirror life in unexpected ways.

One such story is that of Sudama and Lord Krishna—a timeless lesson in humility, intention, and deep relationships. Sudama, a poor Brahmin and childhood friend of Krishna, visits his royal friend after years. He doesn’t ask for anything, doesn’t speak of his hardship. He just shows up—with love and a small offering of beaten rice.

And yet, without being asked, Krishna blesses him with prosperity and dignity

Reading this again recently made me reflect—not on the religious or mythological aspect—but on how beautifully this parallels business networking, especially in today’s world where relationships are often transactional.

Here’s what I believe we can all learn from it:

1. Don’t Treat Every Relationship Like a Transaction

Sudama never asked Krishna for help. He didn’t go with expectations or a hidden agenda. He went to meet a friend.

In contrast, many modern networking efforts—especially in business—are designed purely around “What can I get?” This mindset turns relationships into transactions. But true networking thrives when we remove the pressure of returns and focus on meaningful connections.

If every message you send or every meeting you have is about extracting value, people will eventually stop opening their doors.

Instead, approach relationships with curiosity, gratitude, and presence. Like Sudama did. Business will follow when the bond is strong.

2. Give What You Can, With the Right Intent

Sudama didn’t have riches. All he had was a handful of beaten rice—something simple but heartfelt. But that mattered more to Krishna than any amount of gold.

This reminds us that it’s not about the size of what you give—it’s the sincerity behind it.

In business networking:

These things aren’t flashy, but they matter.

People don’t remember what you gave. They remember how you made them feel.

The relationships that last are the ones where small gestures are made with big hearts.

3. Build Relationships Before You Need Them

Krishna didn’t wait for Sudama to ask. He sensed what was needed—because their bond was strong and deeply rooted in the past.

n real life, this is the kind of network that supports you silently.

Too often, we wait until we’re launching a new product, shifting careers, or hitting a revenue low to start “networking.” But by then, it feels forced. You haven't nurtured the relationships when they didn’t need anything from you—so why should they respond now?

The best time to plant the seeds of your network was years ago. The second-best time is now—but without expectation.

Show up. Stay in touch. Celebrate others’ wins. Help without agenda. That way, when you actually need support, it comes unspoken—like it did for Sudama.

4. Intent Is More Valuable Than Effort Alone

Krishna didn’t see the quantity of Sudama’s gift. He saw the intention—and that’s what made him emotional.

In networking and business relationships, we often overestimate how much effort we need to put in—and underestimate how powerful our intent can be.

Real intent cuts through noise. People feel it. And when they do, they remember you for the right reasons.

Make your intent visible. Be human, be thoughtful, and be willing to give—even when no one is watching.

5. Your Network is Your Real Net Worth—If It’s Built Right

When Sudama returned from Krishna’s palace, he wasn’t just richer in terms of wealth. He had dignity, peace, and the confidence that someone powerful cared for him.

That’s what a good network gives you:

And this doesn’t happen overnight. It happens when we stop focusing on the number of contacts and start building the depth of our connections.

One Krishna is more valuable than 500 acquaintances

That’s what I’m learning in my own journey too. To grow the right relationships—slowly, honestly, and with heart.

Conclusion: The Future of Vendor Selection

Sudama’s story isn’t just about spiritual grace—it’s a masterclass in how meaningful relationships work.

In business, we’re often told to network more, reach out, follow up, and chase leads. But what if we flipped the script?

What if we showed up with sincerity instead of strategy? What if we gave first—like Sudama did? And what if we believed that one day, our Krishna would notice—and give back, without being asked?

One Krishna is more valuable than 500 acquaintances