Bhagavad Gita (gītā):

Nishkama Karma
(Niṣkāmkarm)
Team Members:
Sakshi
Harshita
Smriti
Bhavana
Devyanshi
Hanshika
Priyanshi
Mansi
 Table of contents
01 02 03
Introduction Key Concepts In Bhagavad Gita

04 05 06
Understanding Benefits Examples in
the Practices & Significance Different Context

07 08 09
Challenges Practical tips for Conclusion
And Obstacles applying Niṣkāma
Karma
Introduction 01
 Definition and Meaning
Origin and Philosophy:
Niṣkāma Karma finds its origins in ancient Indian scriptures, Niṣkāma Karma refers to the concept of
particularly the Bhagavad Gita. selfless or desireless action.
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu text that presents a
dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna. The term "Niṣkāma" means "without
desire," and "Karma" means "action" in
Lord Krishna explains the concept of Niṣkāma Karma to Arjuna,
Sanskrit.
providing philosophical guidance in the context of the
Kurukshetra War. It is a significant concept in Hindu
The philosophy of Niṣkāma Karma promotes selflessness, philosophy, emphasizing the importance
detachment, and surrendering the results of one's actions to a of performing actions without
higher power or the cosmic order. attachment to the outcomes.
It encourages individuals to focus on their duties and
responsibilities, while letting go of desires, expectations, and
attachments to the fruits of their actions.
 Key Concepts of
Niṣkāma Karma

02
 Karma:
• The word karma means the good or bad effect of doing something.
• Good intention and deeds contribute to good karma and happier
rebirth . While bad intention and deeds contribute to bad karma and
bad rebirth.
• karma is the belief that actions have consequences and create
imprints on an individual's consciousness, influencing their future
experiences and shaping their destiny.

Niṣkāma:
• In sanskrit Niṣkāma means "action without motive" or "work without desire".
• Niṣkāma karma 8s the selfless or desireless action done without any expectation of fruit or
results.
• Niṣkāma karma is the central tenet of karma yoga path to liberation or moksha.
• when act has been performed by an individual for sake of one's duty rather than for personal
reward from it, the person is likely to do right.
So, krishna advocates Niṣkāma karma as ideal path to realise truth.
Desirelessness:
• meaning "being without desire".
• You have no identification with your desires. Your desire is only about
what is needed. You have no personal identity with the desire that you play.
• Desirelessness is a state where individuals act selflessly, without
attachment to the outcomes, and recognize that their actions are part of a
larger cosmic order. It is a path that leads to inner growth, equanimity, and
ultimate spiritual liberation.
Niṣkāma Karma in 03
the Bhagavad Gita
Bhagavad Gita is set in a narrative framework of a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and
Lord Krishna as they discuss issues of human ethics, societal morality and reasoning.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, no being can escape from performing karma (action), as
even when we’re sleeping or breathing we are doing karma. However, someone can
practise Niṣkāma Karma (action without desire). If someone is not attached to the
consequences of their actions, then they are free from the bondage of karma.

According to Lord Krishna, practising Niṣkāma Karma Yoga is the true path for realising the
truth. This yoga is also known as ‘Yoga of Selfless Action’. In the act of Niṣkāma Karma, one
has no selfish expectations; a Niṣkāma Karmi (someone who performs Niṣkāma Karma)
only gives with love, devotion and happiness.

Niṣkāma Karma refers to doing selfless service (seva), without the expectation of receiving
acknowledgement or a reward. If you perform karma for the sake of being rewarded and
appreciated, then this karma cannot be counted as true Niṣkāma Karma. For instance, if a
celebrity was to donate money to charity publicly and make a big deal out of their
donation in the newspaper for the sake of raising their social profile, then this would not be
performing Niṣkāma Karma.
Niṣkāma Karma has an important role in the Bhagavad Gita, the central text of
Mahabharata,where Krishna advocates 'Niṣkāma Karma Yoga' (the Yoga of Selfless Action)
as the ideal path to realise the Truth.Allocated work done without expectations, motives, or
thinking about its outcomes tends to purify one's mind and gradually makes an individual
fit to see the value of reason and the benefits of renouncing the work itself. These concepts
are vividly described in the following verses:

Chapter 2. Verse 47
Bhagavad Gita

Thy concern is with action done, never with the results. Let not thy fruits of
action be thy motive; neither let there be in thee any attachment of inaction.

A man is subject to rebirth (punaravrtti) if he performs tasks with greed. Niṣkāma karma
yoga does not advocate renunciation; it mentions renunciation in action. One should not
give up action at any cost. Bhagavad Gita asks one not to have any motive of future benefit
while performing the action, or bother about good or bad consequences of action.
It is not possible for any action to be motiveless. For example, we eat to satisfy our hunger.
We drink to quench our thirst.
 Chapter 5 Verse 11
Bhagavad Gita

With the body, with the mind, with the intellect, even merely with the senses, the Yogis perform action
toward self-purification, having abandoned attachment. He who is disciplined in Yoga, having
abandoned the fruit of action, attains steady peace.

According to the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, a Karma Yogi is someone who is good to the world
around them, someone who loves the world and all its Beings selflessly. A Karma Yogi is also aware
of the fact that the body, mind, intellect and senses are all the properties of the Lord, given by Lord
himself. Therefore, all the work done is for the benefit of the Lord, and not for the satisfaction of the
human ego.According to Bhagavad Gita, humans are not the real owners of their body, mind,
intellect and senses. All of those belong to the Lord. But due to our psychological conditioning, we
believe that our bodies belong to ourselves. Due to this misunderstanding, we begin to do things for
our own benefit, to appease ourselves without the thought of appeasing God or practising good
Karma.

For example:- The tongue likes spicy and greasy food, so we undertake actions to satisfy our taste
buds by eating food that may prove to be harmful in the long run. The sense of independent
thought and ownership takes place, becomes familiar and strengthens our ego which directly
opposes the power of Karma.
There is a famous saying in Sanskrit:
प्रयोजनम ् अनु दस्य न मण्डो प प्रचोदयात ् –
Even a stupid person does not do anything unless there is a motive.

Walking through life without a motive or desire is impossible for the

individual, but it is possible for one to direct the motive from a lower goal
towards a higher goal. The motive of one’s action shouldn’t be temporary
satisfaction of sensual desire, but rather the highest motive of
self-realisation. Niṣkāma karma commands that a man should give up
attachment to the motive, in order to be able to remain untroubled by
success or failure of action.“
Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra imparting the teaching of Niṣkāma Karma to Arjun
Understanding the
Practice of Niṣkāma 04
Karma
The profound concept of Niṣkāma Karma, a guiding principle rooted in ancient Eastern
philosophy. Niṣkāma Karma encourages us to detach ourselves from the outcomes of our
actions while engaging in selfless service. This philosophy emphasizes balancing inner
growth and outer actions. Let's explore this enlightening practice further.
Detachment from Outcomes:

Niṣkāma Karma teaches us to relinquish our attachment to desired outcomes. By shifting our
focus away from results, we free ourselves from anxiety and disappointment. Instead, we
learn to appreciate the journey itself, embracing each moment with equanimity. This
detachment enables us to act with clarity, wisdom, and mindfulness, untainted by the
fluctuations of success or failure.
Selfless Service:
Central to Niṣkāma Karma is the principle of selfless service. By engaging in actions without
seeking personal gain or recognition, we align ourselves with the greater good. Selfless service
cultivates compassion, empathy, and a sense of interconnectedness, fostering harmony within
ourselves and with others. It reminds us that true fulfillment lies not in personal achievements,
but in contributing to the well-being of others and society as a whole. Niṣkāma Karma
encourages us to strike a harmonious balance between our inner growth and our external
actions. While dedicating time and effort to our personal development, we also recognize the
importance of applying our skills and knowledge to uplift others. This integration of inner and
outer realms allows us to lead purposeful lives and create positive change in the world.

In embracing Niṣkāma Karma, we transcend the limitations of ego-driven desires and cultivate a
profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. By detaching ourselves from outcomes, practicing
selfless service, and balancing inner growth with outer actions, we embark on a transformative
journey of self-discovery and compassion.
 Benefits and
Significance of
Niṣkāma Karma

05
Niṣkāma karma, or selfless action, is a concept from Hindu philosophy that holds several
benefits and significance, including:

Personal Growth and Spiritual Development: By engaging in actions without attachment to

personal outcomes or desires, individuals can cultivate qualities such as selflessness,
compassion, and detachment. This promotes personal growth and spiritual development,
allowing individuals to transcend their ego and connect with a higher sense of purpose.

Overcoming Ego and Attachment: Niṣkāma karma helps individuals overcome the limitations
of ego and attachment. When actions are performed without seeking personal gain or
recognition, the ego's influence diminishes, leading to a greater sense of inner peace and
freedom. By letting go of attachment to the results of their actions, individuals become more
resilient and less affected by success or failure.
Contributing to the Well-being of Others: Niṣkāma karma emphasizes serving and
benefiting others without expecting anything in return. By focusing on the welfare of others,
individuals contribute to creating a harmonious and compassionate society. This selfless
service fosters empathy, gratitude, and interconnectedness, promoting the overall
well-being and happiness of both individuals and communities.

In essence, Niṣkāma karma encourages individuals to act selflessly, without attachment to

personal outcomes, leading to personal growth, spiritual development, and a positive
impact on the well-being of others.
Examples of Niṣkāma
Karma in different 06
Context
In professional life
In professional life, it means performing tasks without any desire for
personal gain or reward.
It involves carrying out duties and responsibilities to serve and contribute,
rather than being driven by self-interest.
Niskamakarm in professional life focuses on the collective benefit of the
organization and its stakeholders.
It involves prioritizing collaboration, empathy, and ethical conduct.
By embodying niskamakarm, individuals can create a positive work
environment.
It helps build meaningful relationships and make a lasting impact through
selfless contributions.
Social work and charity
In charity and social services, Nishkam Karm Yog encourages individuals to
engage in acts of kindness and service without seeking personal recognition
or rewards.
It emphasizes performing charitable deeds with pure intentions and a
genuine desire to help others, rather than for personal gain.
Nishkam Karm Yog promotes the idea of serving the needy and
underprivileged without expecting anything in return.
By practicing Nishkam Karm Yog in charity and social services, individuals
can cultivate a sense of compassion, empathy, and selflessness.
It allows for a deeper connection with the community and enables
individuals to make a meaningful and lasting impact on society.
An example of this can be seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when
numerous individuals and organizations came forward to provide aid and
support to those affected by the crisis.
In region context
Niṣkāma Yoga is a concept in Hinduism that emphasizes selfless action
without attachment to the results.
It promotes performing one's duty or actions without seeking personal gain
or expecting any rewards.
Niṣkāma Yoga teaches individuals to act without selfish motives, focusing
on the greater good and the well-being of others.
It encourages individuals to perform their duties with dedication, sincerity,
and a sense of responsibility, without getting attached to the outcomes.
An example of this can be observed through charity in various religious
traditions.
For instance, in Sikhism, the concept of "Seva" embodies Niṣkāma Karma.
Sikhs engage in selfless service by providing food, shelter, and assistance to
those in need through community kitchens called "Langar." The volunteers
prepare and serve meals to people regardless of their background, status,
or religion. They do so with the sole intention of serving and helping others,
without expecting anything in return.
 Challenges and
Obstacles in practicing
Niṣkāma Karma

07
Practicing Niṣkāma Karma, also known as selfless action or action without attachment
to the results, can present certain challenges and obstacles. So , here we see that there
are certain challenges and obstacles that one faces while practicing Niṣkāma karma.

• Dealing with expectations and attachments: One of the main hurdles in practicing
Niṣkāma Karma is overcoming the natural tendency to expect specific outcomes or
become attached to the results of our actions. This can lead to frustration,
disappointment, or a sense of failure if things don't go as expected.

•Overcoming selfish motivations: Niṣkāma Karma emphasizes performing actions

without selfish intentions. However, it can be challenging to consistently act selflessly,
especially when our desires, ambitions, or personal gains are involved.
•Maintaining consistency and commitment: Niṣkāma Karma requires
consistent practice and It can be challenging to maintain this level of dedication,
especially when faced with the pressures and demands of daily life.

To overcome these challenges and obstacles, individuals aspiring to practice

Niṣkāma Karma must cultivate self-awareness and mindfulness. By developing a
deep understanding of the underlying principles of Niṣkāma Karma, one can
effectively navigate through the complexities and dilemmas that arise. Regular
introspection, meditation, and reflection can help individuals stay grounded in
their intentions and maintain a genuine spirit of selflessness.
Practical tips for
applying Niṣkāma 08
Karma
 Applying Niṣkāma Karma, the concept of selfless action, can be a transformative practice that brings
peace, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose to our lives. Here are some practical tips for incorporating
Niṣkāma Karma into your daily life:

1. Cultivating Mindfulness and Awareness:

To practice Niṣkāma Karma, it is important to develop mindfulness and awareness in every moment.
Pay attention to your thoughts, emotions, and intentions before engaging in any action. Cultivate a
sense of presence and observe the motivations behind your actions. By bringing conscious awareness
to your choices, you can align them with selflessness and detachment from personal outcomes.

2. Developing Compassion and Empathy:

Niṣkāma Karma encourages us to act with compassion and empathy towards
others. Practice putting yourself in the shoes of others, understanding their needs and
desires, and acting in a way that supports their well-being. Develop a genuine concern for
the welfare of others and let it guide your actions. By doing so, you can cultivate a sense
of interconnectedness and contribute to the greater good.
 3. Finding Meaning and Purpose in Actions:
One of the key aspects of Niṣkāma Karma is finding meaning and purpose in our actions. Reflect
on what deeply matters to you and how your actions can contribute to those values. Consider how
your talents, skills, and passions can be utilized to serve others and make a positive impact. When
you align your actions with your values and a greater purpose, you infuse them with significance
and fulfillment.

4. Letting go of Expectations:
Niṣkāma Karma emphasizes detachment from the outcomes of our actions. Instead of acting
solely for personal gain or expecting specific results, focus on the intention and quality of your
actions. Recognize that you have control only over your efforts, not the final outcomes. Let go of
attachment to success or failure, and embrace a mindset of surrender. By releasing expectations,
you can reduce stress, cultivate equanimity, and act selflessly.
 5. Practicing Gratitude:
Expressing gratitude for the opportunities to engage in selfless action can deepen your
practice of Niṣkāma Karma. Develop a habit of recognizing and appreciating the
interconnectedness of life and the abundance of blessings around you. Gratitude can shift
your focus from personal desires to a genuine appreciation for the present moment and the
ability to make a positive difference.

Incorporating these practical tips into your daily life can help you embody Niṣkāma
Karma and experience its transformative power. Remember that selfless action is a
continuous practice, and it may take time to fully integrate these principles into your
life. With patience, persistence, and an open heart, you can cultivate a life filled with
purpose, meaning, and service to others.
CONCLUSION
- Niṣkāma Karma emphasizes performing duties selflessly, without attachment to outcomes.
- By focusing on the process and intentions behind our actions, we can find inner peace and reduce
stress.
- Niṣkāma Karma encourages selfless service, promoting a sense of purpose and fulfillment in our
lives.
- It guides us to act with integrity, mindfulness, and compassion, considering the long-term effects of
our actions.
- Embracing Niṣkāma Karma fosters ethical behavior and a greater sense of responsibility towards
ourselves, others, and the environment.
- This philosophy helps us overcome the fear of failure and disappointment by releasing our
attachment to results.
- By practicing Niṣkāma Karma, we cultivate resilience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn and
grow from our experiences.
- It reminds us that true fulfillment lies not in achievements or possessions, but in the quality of our
actions and the intentions behind them.
- By living a life of selfless service driven by love, compassion, and empathy, we can make a
positive impact on ourselves and others.
- Ultimately, embracing Niṣkāma Karma leads to a more harmonious and interconnected
world, where balance, purpose, and fulfillment are prioritized.
THANK YOU