The term ‘Karma’ literally means any physical or mental action or deed.  It is not only action but the result of an action. Both aspects – the action and its result define what Karma is all about.

Karma Yoga is the offering of one’s actions and the fruits from them to the Divine. Out of all the paths to spiritual liberation, Karma Yoga is the path of unselfish action. It teaches that a spiritual seeker should act according to Dharma, without being attached to the consequences of one’s actions. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna clearly explains that our focus needs to be on our actions and not on the results from those actions. He also suggests that once the action is completely devoted to him – life is not impacted by extremes but by a state of balance which is the easiest way to become one with the divine.

I find the spirit of Karma Yoga in the lives of Swami Vivekananda and Swami Dayanand. Despite the challenges they faced in their lives – they continued to work single-mindedly and selflessly for the upliftment of society. But these are tales of the Masters we have only been able to listen to. Closer home, our parents personify the presence of Karma Yoga in our lives – as they are always selflessly working for our happiness expecting little or nothing in return.

One of my key learnings is that greatness and perfection come from performance of action without interest in immediate results. I have also observed that once our actions are directed towards the path of Karma Yoga with wisdom and purpose, the journey may become even more enjoyable than the destination. For instance, the process of setting up one’s own business can be more enjoyable than the establishment of the business itself. Or the building of one’s own home can be a memorable and joyful experience that will outweigh the achievement of completing the construction of the house.

In today’s fast-paced and evolving world – only those who deeply love and are passionate about the work they do, are the ones who achieve consistently higher levels of achievement. Be it a Roger Federer or a Ratan Tata or a Kiran Mazumdar Shaw. Their consistent focus on doing what they truly love is what sets them apart. The results of their efforts are only a logical result of their efforts.

I also see this principle of karma yoga in my mother-in-law –  Dr. Ramesh Arora, who is a well- known cardiologist and my inspiration. She is focused and consistent in her approach towards her work which is most demanding – given that it includes self-study, taking up complicated medical cases, patient care and more. She is able to balance this with her attention towards the family once she returns home. I see her always working selflessly towards the betterment and well-being of those around her.

I’d like to conclude my understanding of Karma Yoga with this verse from the Bhagvad Geeta which resonates with me –

“One who performs his duty without attachment, surrendering the results unto the Supreme God, is not affected by sinful action, as the lotus leaf is untouched by water.”