A Real Lion Needs No Publicity!

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True leadership is proved by action, not expensive image-building — Adv. Mahesh Dhannawat

Substance over spectacle

“Keeping a lion is not expensive. What becomes expensive is decorating a donkey every day and trying to convince the world that it is a lion.” This proverb is a metaphor about manufactured reputation, not an invitation to insult people. Genuine ability, integrity and courage cannot be created by promotional campaigns. In an era of constant publicity, society must distinguish visibility from achievement.

A king, a lion and a donkey

A king wanted a symbol of courage at his court. One adviser recommended a lion. Another suggested dressing a donkey in royal garments, crowning it, surrounding it with guards and proclaiming it the king of the jungle. The king agreed. Ceremonies were held and portraits displayed. Some citizens began believing the claim. Then a real lion roared from the forest. Asked to roar in reply, the decorated donkey could only bray. The king realized that a crown cannot manufacture courage, and publicity cannot create competence. This is a fictional parable.

The lesson for politics

Democratic leaders should be evaluated by improvements in drinking water, roads, schools, healthcare, jobs and public safety, not simply by posters, crowds or online engagement. Public communication matters, but it should explain achievements rather than substitute for them. Citizens should ask for evidence and measurable outcomes.

Administration and today’s challenges

Across Maharashtra, issues such as water conservation, waste management, environmental protection and infrastructure safety call for practical action. In Jalna, the meaningful test of public administration is whether complaints are resolved, schemes reach those in need, and public resources are protected. Ceremonial praise cannot replace accountability.

Social media, education and justice

Paid promotion and polished images can generate attention, but they cannot guarantee trust. A teacher serving disadvantaged students, a doctor helping vulnerable patients or an honest public servant may create lasting change without publicity. In the legal profession, knowledge, preparation, ethics and assistance to the court matter more than appearances. Confidence in justice rests on fairness and timely decisions.

Statement of Adv. Mahesh Dhannawat

“Society must distinguish genuine ability from manufactured greatness. Spending public energy, time and money to promote incompetence instead of supporting talent is harmful. In Jalna and across Maharashtra, people need real solutions for water scarcity, sanitation, environmental protection and public safety. Citizens should demand accountability and reward merit instead of blindly following publicity. A real lion does not need a crown to prove its identity; genuine leadership is demonstrated through meaningful work.”

The final lesson

Resources devoted to unnecessary image-building could instead support education, healthcare, water conservation and people in need. A lion is recognized by its courage, not its crown. A person is remembered for actions, not advertisements.