The Dharma of Sustainable Finance

The Dharma of Sustainable Finance explores the untold financial legacy of ancient Taxila—once a thriving center of trade, scholarship, and governance—and connects it to the pressing needs of today’s financial world. Drawing on ancient instruments like the Adesha (an early bill of exchange) and the Shreni (merchant guilds), the book uncovers how ethical finance, trust-based credit systems, and self-regulating business communities enabled long-distance trade without modern institutions. It presents a unique interdisciplinary narrative at the intersection of economic history, ethical philosophy, and sustainable finance. It highlights how ancient Indian financial systems prioritized community welfare, ethical conduct (Dharma), and environmental stewardship—values increasingly sought in today’s ESG investing, green banking, and inclusive economic models. Combining historical evidence with modern financial analysis, this work reimagines ancient practices in the context of climate finance, digital payments, corporate governance, and impact investing. It offers practical insights for financial professionals, scholars, policymakers, and students looking for ethically grounded, historically inspired approaches to contemporary financial challenges. This book is ideal for readers interested in sustainable finance, economic ethics, development studies, and ancient civilizations. It invites business leaders, researchers, and students to rediscover the timeless wisdom of one of the world’s earliest economic hubs—and to use it to shape a more equitable and sustainable future.