CLASS 11-12 VALUE EDUCATION OLYMPIAD

Values that would drive the

future of the planet
 17 PARTNERSHIPS
FOR THE GOALS
1 NO
POVERTY

Creating a shared
understanding of
2 ZERO
HUNGER

16 PEACE, JUSTICE
AND STRONG
INSTITUTIONS
achieving the goals
while providing a Equipping people with
right values & skills to
platform for
empower them to Teaching people how
collaboration
build a better to make informed
between different
future. decisions about
stakeholders.
Believing and trusting the sharing and not
process of God and wasting food. Investing

15 LIFE ON
LAND
Preaching the same. in programs like Food
for life. 3 GOOD HEALTH
AND WELL-BEING
Teaching people how
to take care of their
environment,
Making food cycles more respect other
sustainable. cultures and promote
self-care.

14 LIFE BELOW
WATER
4 QUALITY
EDUCATION
Creating an equitable
educational system by

ISKCON & SDGs

Caring for every living bridging the gap through
organism. integration of Values.

OVERVIEW
13 CLIMATE
ACTION 5 GENDER
EQUALITY

Being inclusive and

creating an equal society
Educating the values with acceptance of all
which are intrinsic. living beings.

12 RESPONSIBLE
CONSUMPTION
AND PRODUCTION
6 CLEAN WATER
AND SANITATION
Inner cleanliness
will surely inspire
outer cleanliness.
Creating awareness
regarding GREED.

7 AFFORDABLE AND

11 SUSTAINABLE CITIES CLEAN ENERGY

AND COMMUNITIES Empowering people
Believing in simple to make informed
decisions about their
ways of living,
Teaching how to 8 DECENT WORK
AND ECONOMIC
energy use andnot
create healthier cities
and communities.
10 REDUCED
INEQUALITIES
9 INDUSTRY
INNOVATION AND
GROWTH
over abusing the
same.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Integrating Respect for all and

Distribution of resources
equally, Inspiring people
to do philanthrophy.
ensuring access to better job
opportunities and improved
Not innovating mindlessly
living standards.
but defining it as social
design, a design for need
and necessity.
 Preface
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna
movement, was founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in 1966 in New York City.
It has grown to include 700 significant temples, centers, rural communities, many affiliated
vegetarian restaurants, local meeting groups, and community projects, with millions of
members worldwide.

ISKCON realizes the global agenda and needs to work together toward climate change. ‘Value
Education Olympiad” was launched by ISKCON 10 years ago. It is a certification program for
school students from 5th standard to 12th standard. We have seen the participation of more
than 15 lakh students across the globe.

“Futurethics” – the name says it all. To effect a fundamental change in the world around us and
to build a more ethical society, we start with the children, as they are the future. A value-based
education sets students on the path to building a better community. “Children are like wet
cement; whatever falls on them makes an impression.” The content of the book – Futurethics
has been designed with this vision.

At ISKCON, we have successfully conducted many value education programs based on the
ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. This year our value education program focuses on
making the students sensitive toward environmental change because that’s the need of the
hour. The values have been explained in the following manner –

1. The general analysis of the value

2. Detailed analysis of the value by day-to-day examples and case studies.
3. Analyzing the value in light of the Bhagavad Gita
4. Instances from other scriptures are also given to emphasize the same value
5. Relationship of the value with the environment
6. Environmental case studies.

After the end of each chapter, there is a progress check to help the students understand the
content better and prepare for the final examination.

Integration of the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita into the content has acted as a catalyst in the
development of value-oriented education. Bhagavad Gita explains the art of living in harmony
with nature and delineates the measures to restore harmony in times of discrepancies.

Futurethics, with teachings of the Bhagavad Gita as its roots, values as its trunk, concern for the
environment as its leaves, and environmental sustainability and sensitivity as its fruits, try to
serve all its readers to become more responsible in serving mother nature.
 How to use this book?
Built on the foundation of values, this book integrates various perspectives to address the
environmental concerns of present times. It also focuses on several Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) set out by the United Nations and how those values can help us progress toward
those goals. This book brings refreshing, relevant, and insightful perspectives from religious
traditions, modern research, recent history, and diverse cultures.

The book’s content begins with a section on “Why Value Education?” followed by three chapters
on three values.

Each chapter explains its value, relevance, and application in the modern context. The different
chapter has interesting elements as follows:

1. Case Studies: mention inspiring real-time examples from recent history around
various environmental initiatives.

2. Spiritual Tales: This column narrates a historical account from various scriptures
(esp Srimad Bhagavatam) around a particular value.

3. Environment Sangam: This section depicts the connection and impact of the
particular value on the environment.

4. Food for Thought: This section invites readers to ponder critically and individually
on specific values or environmental challenges.

5. Amazing Facts and Did you know: These offer a wealth of exciting facts underscoring
the importance of value and environment.

6. Quotes from various traditions: These quotes bring out deeper penetrating truths
and portray their emphasis on the same values.

7. Illustrations: A single picture can speak more than 1000 words. These bring clarity
and spark innovative, critical learning elements for the reader.

8. Value Reflection: This contains various questions based on the chapter’s content
for reflection and further comprehension.

9. A QR Code at the end of each chapter: will direct readers to further online resources
around that value.

10. Answer Key: This answers the questions in the Value Reflection column. Each
student should attempt questions of their own and can check their answers from the
 Answer key.

11. Appendix:

a) Verses from the Bhagavad Gita: Many questions are based on the texts of the
Bhagavad Gita. The verses required to understand and answer the question are
mentioned in the Appendix. The abbreviation BG stands for Bhagavad Gita.

b) References: It includes all the references for texts used in the chapter.

We recommend the reader read the entire chapter and engage with various exercises and
questions. Each chapter can be studied independently as well.
 Table of Contents
Topic Page no.

Why Value Education? 1

Gratitude 4

Discipline 13

Happiness 23

Altruism 33

Answer Key 45

Appendix 47

References 50
WHY
VALUE
EDUCATION? Values are the principles and beliefs
“The Earth is our mother. We can’t compromise
that a person considers necessary. They
with the environment. It is our collective
responsibility to protect it and ensure a healthy guide our decision-making process and,
planet for our future generations.” consequently, our choices and behavior.
- Shri Narendra Modi
Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Value education is essential for the holistic
growth of an individual and society. It
provides a positive direction to the students to shape their future, helping them become more
responsible and sensible in comprehending their life’s purpose.

Knowledge and skills alone don’t complete the education of a person. Knowledge and skills can
be dangerous without a robust value system. Duryodhana and Arjuna both were experts in skill,
being one of the best fighters alive in the world, yet with altogether different value systems.
Whereas one was guided by selfish interest, envy, greed, and lust, the other was guided by divine
virtues. The result was that Duryodhana ruined his whole dynasty, and Arjuna not only won the
war and became emperor of the entire world but left an eternal legacy of righteousness.

Like every machine with a manual containing

instructions and precautions for using
the device for maximum benefit, Srimad
Bhagavad Gita is regarded as the manual
of life. Undoubtedly, it has been regarded
as the sacred religious text for millions of
devotees worldwide for thousands of years,
yet it goes beyond that. Sri Krishna speaks
“The world is in crisis because of our lack of
ethics and values. Unless we reconnect with
the soul of nature, unless we put our hearts
and souls in the service of the earth, we cannot
expect to bring about a sustainable and
harmonious world.”
- His Holiness Radhanath Swami
Spiritual Leader, ISKCON

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 its purpose, the three kinds of lifestyles,
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors;
nature, work, food habits, time,
we borrow it from our children.”
determination, knowledge, decision
- Native American Proverb
making, mind, meditation, relationships,
dilemma, conflicts and various other
subjects that can help us get (and give)the most of this life.

The wisdom available in Bhagavad Gita

“Environmentalism is not a movement, it’s a
consciousness. When we see ourselves as part
of nature and not separate from it, we naturally
begin to care for and protect the environment.”
- Rukmini Krishna Das
Spiritual Leader, ISKCON
has helped innumerable souls from all
spheres of life in the past and present, and
it contains valuable insights into the world’s
current problems. In this booklet, we have
selected certain portions from the Bhagavad
Gita, specifically around Values that can
empower students to navigate their daily
life from a place of fulfillment and purpose.

These values coming directly from Sri Krishna will be a guiding source of light in the life of
anyone integrating them through practicing.

Values and Environment

In the last 2 million years, greenhouse
“Climate change is not just an environmental
emissions have been the highest. The
issue, it is a moral and ethical issue. It is about
last decade was the warmest on record.
how we treat the planet, each other, and future
Since everything is interconnected in the
generations. We have a responsibility to act,
ecosystem, the consequences of climate to make the changes necessary to ensure a
change now include, among others, sustainable future for all beings.”
water scarcity, intense drought, severe - Dr. Iyad Abumoghli, Principal Policy
fires, melting polar ice, rising sea levels,
Advisor at UNEP
flooding, catastrophic storms, and declining
biodiversity. The adverse effects on health, capacity to grow food, housing, safety, and work are
already visible and rising.

Based on the sixth assessment report by

“The values that drive our relationship with
the environment determine the future of our
planet. Only when our values and our actions
are in sync with the needs of the environment
can we create a sustainable world for ourselves
and future generations.”
- Anuttama Das, Director, Environment
Minister at ISKCON
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC), we now know the following:
▶ It is unequivocal that human influence
has warmed the atmosphere, ocean, and
land. Widespread and rapid changes in
the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere, and
biosphere have occurred.

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▶ The scale of recent changes across the
climate system as a whole – and the present
state of many aspects of the climate system
– is unprecedented over many centuries to
many thousands of years.
▶ Human-induced climate change
already affects global weather and climate
extremes in every region. Evidence of
observed changes in extremes such as
heatwaves, heavy precipitation, droughts,
and tropical cyclones, particularly their attribution to human influence, has strengthened since
the last Assessment Report.
“Environment and development are not
mutually exclusive but integrally connected.
Our commitment to development should not
be at the cost of our environment. Environment
has no substitutes, it needs to be conserved,
nurtured and protected.”
- Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Minister of
Environment, Forest and Climate change
India

It is beyond doubt that among all species of life, humans have the most significant capacity to
affect mother nature adversely.

Human civilization stands at crossroads, and our present actions will determine the kind of
future that we will leave for ourselves and upcoming generations. Different actions yield
different results. Different choices create different kinds and amounts of impact—our choices
matter.

What dictates those choices? One of the prominent factors is our values, Individually and
collectively as a society.

ISKCONs Value Integration

ISKCON has taken up this initiative to integrate values for the environment and biodiversity for

“The environment is not a commodity to ▶ Encouraging a responsible

be plundered and exploited for profit, but a behaviour
precious heritage to be handed down with care
to future generations.” ▶ Raising awareness about
- Pope Francis Environmental conservation

▶ Developing critical thinking skills to analyse complex environmental issues and

make informed decisions based on scientific evidence.

▶ Fostering a sense of responsibility

▶ Promoting positive attitudes

For detailed knowledge, we invite the reader to explore more directly from Bhagavad Gita.

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 1

GRATITUDE
sweetens
the
smallest moments
The World: Be the Best
The Gita: Try Your Best

Couples are known to argue. In one such dispute, the disagreement became so acute that they
had to settle it in court. There, they began arguing in front of the judge! The wife demanded, “I
want my son to become an accountant!” while the husband countered, “No! He should become
a doctor!” As it went back and forth, each side stubbornly defending their corner, the judge
interjected and innocently asked, “Why don’t you just ask your son what he wants to be?” The
couple looked at the judge incredulously - “Our son isn’t even born yet!”

Each of us is on the receiving end of our fair share of pressure and expectation. That powerful
energy can inspire and elevate, or depress and destroy us. Family, friends, society and the
media set the bar for success, and we feel compelled to rise to the challenge. We want to be
appreciated and accepted, acknowledged positively, and strive to make others proud of us. We
shed blood, sweat and tears to create a life that looks good on the outside. Ironically, it may
not feel very good on the inside. Does our value lie in external achievements or something much
deeper? How do we define real success?

In Chapter Five, Krishna reassures Arjuna that far from impeding his spiritual journey,
active life in the world can complement it. The key, however, is to function with detachment.
Krishna explains that we cannot determine the results of our work, since there are influences
that conspire beyond our control. Even when we try our best, things don’t always transpire
as planned. Though this may sound deflating, it’s incredibly liberating. We can only control
our effort and endeavour – the rest is in the hands of Providence. Knowing this, in times of
achievement we feel immense gratitude, and in times of adversity we remain determined and
hopeful, knowing that a higher plan is in place. Without this vision of spiritual dependency, our
successes may cause us to become proud and complacent, while our adversities may bring loss
of esteem and hopelessness, a feeling of being useless and inadequate. Success in life, Krishna
says, is not to be the best but rather to try our best.

In the epic tale of Ramayana, we find a beautiful scene where herculean monkeys throw huge

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boulders into the sea, working to build a massive bridge to conquer the demon Ravana. There,
we encountered one small squirrel. Some say it was contributing a few pebbles into the bridge-
building exercise. Others say it was sliding dirt into the cracks to smoothen the jagged edges.
One commentator mentions it was jumping into the sea, soaking up its fur with water, and
coming back onto shore and shaking it off, hoping to dry up the ocean in that fashion! Whichever
one it was, the monkeys were looking at the squirrel and thinking, “Small! Insignificant! Make
way for the heavyweight contributors!” Lord Rama, however, was looking at the squirrel saying,
“Amazing! Wonderful! What a beautiful devotional offering!” It’s the wholehearted utilisation of
our God-given capacity that counts. This is real success.

Putting undue pressure on ourselves to be high achievers may render us anxious, frustrated
and even depressed. We can be ambitious, adventurous and bold, but must temper it with
the deep spiritual awareness that our success is in trying our best. All subsequent results are
sanctioned by Providence, beyond our circle of influence.

“The steadily devoted soul attains unadulterated peace because he offers the result of all
activities to Me; whereas a person who is not in union with the Divine, who is greedy for the
fruits of his labour, becomes entangled.” (Bhagavad-gita 5.12)

5.3 – Detachment from the resultsof activity.

What can we learn?

Success in life is not just about achieving external goals but about having a deeper understanding
of our spiritual dependency and being grateful for what we have. We cannot always control the
outcomes of our efforts and should focus on doing our best rather than being the best. This can
lead to feelings of gratitude when things go well and a sense of determination and hopefulness
when faced with adversity. The example of Lord Rama’s appreciation for the small contribution
of the squirrel highlights the importance of being grateful for all contributions, no matter how
small they may seem.

What is gratitude
gratitude??
Gratitude is a positive emotion that comes from being thankful or appreciative towards oneself,
others, and the world. Psychologically, gratitude is a social emotion that involves recognising
the goodness in one’s life. It has positive outcomes such as improved well-being, better
physical health, and stronger relationships. Philosophically, gratitude is a moral virtue that
involves recognising the good in others and expressing appreciation for their contributions. It
is a crucial component of a fulfilling life. Spiritually, gratitude is a fundamental aspect of many
religions and a way of connecting with the divine, cultivating humility, and promoting inner
peace and happiness.

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 “ Those who are grateful to others, their gratitude will be returned in many ways.”
- Jainism, Acharanga Sutra, 1.11.8

Environmental Junction
Gratitude can have a positive impact on environmental conservation by promoting attitudes
and behaviours that benefit the environment. People who feel grateful towards nature are more

Gratitude for Forest Conservation

The Green Indian Mission is a national

afforestation program launched by the
Indian government in 2014 to increase India’s
forest cover and promote sustainable forest
management practices. The government
emphasises the importance of cultivating
gratitude and respect for the natural world and
encourages communities to take ownership of
local forest conservation.

likely to engage in eco-friendly behaviours, such as recycling and saving energy.

Individuals with higher levels of gratitude are more supportive of policies and practices that
protect the environment. This suggests that gratitude can foster a sense of responsibility and
connectedness towards nature, leading to more pro-environmental actions.

Buddhism says-
“He who receives a benefit with gratitude-, repays the first installment of it.”

‘Showing gratitude towards the environment is not only a way to express appreciation for the
gifts we receive but also a way to repay the debt we owe to the environment.’

Gratitude to Water

The “Gratitude to Water” project in Chile aimed

to promote awareness and appreciation of
water resources and encourage sustainable
water use. It involved community workshops,
art installations, and other events to increase
community members’ awareness and support
for water conservation efforts.

6
 What lessons can we learn from this project? Organise a community activity to
express gratitude for water resources and share your experience on social media. Tag
us #Greengen

Negative emotions like apathy and indifference could contribute to a lack of environmental
concern. Lack of gratitude could also lead to a sense of entitlement, resulting in overconsumption
and disregard for environmental consequences. People with lower levels of gratitude are less
likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviours, suggesting that a lack of gratitude can make
people feel disconnected from nature and less motivated to protect the environment.

Gratitude Gardens

“Gratitude Gardens” project in the United States involved

creating community gardens to promote gratitude
towards nature and encourage sustainable gardening
practices. It fostered a sense of connectedness and
responsibility towards the environment while providing
opportunities for community members to engage in
sustainable food production.

Protecting our Biodiversity

Feeling grateful for nature and biodiversity can make people more likely to engage in behaviours
that support conservation, such as using public transportation and avoiding plastic bags.

Biodiversity in the Western Ghats of India

Save the Western Ghats Movement is a

grassroots organisation with the ideology
“sahyadri pranahuti,” which encourages people
to feel a deep sense of gratitude towards
the natural world. The organisation has
implemented a community-based ecotourism
program, promoted sustainable agriculture
practices, and educated farmers about the
importance of biodiversity conservation.

Insight
Gratitude can help achieve sustainable development goals by promoting positive behaviours
and relationships and increasing individual and collective well-being. When people practise

7
gratitude, they experience positive emotions and greater life satisfaction, which is important
for well-being.

Gratitude in Motion

The “Gratitude in Motion” project in Brazil promotes sustainable development by

encouraging individuals to practise gratitude towards nature and engage in pro-
environmental behaviours. A mobile gratitude booth travels to different cities and
encourages individuals to express gratitude towards nature by writing or drawing on a
gratitude board. Participants are provided information on sustainability practices like
reducing waste and using public transportation.

Create a board and request your classmates and teachers to express their gratitude
towards the environment by writing/drawing on it. Share pictures of the result on
social media and tag us #Greengen

Gratitude can increase pro-social behaviours like volunteering and donating to charity, helping
achieve sustainable development goals related to poverty reduction and social justice. It can
promote positive relationships, important for goals related to partnerships and collaboration.

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Value Reflection
1. Which one of the following is eco-friendly behaviours?
Praying
Dancing
Recycling
Knitting

2. According to Chapter Five the Bhagavad Gita, how can active life in the world complement
one’s spiritual journey?
By achieving external success
By controlling one’s efforts and endeavours
By remaining detached from the results of one’s work
By being proud and complacent about one’s acheivements

3. In reference to verse 18.73, State 4 reasons for which Arjuna is expressing his gratitude
to Krishna
a.
b.
c.
d.

4. What are pro-environmental actions?

Actions to use natural resources
Actions to combat climate change
Actions to preserve the environment
Actions that are pro-life

5. Sanjay is expressing gratitude to ____(BG 18.74)

6. In times of adversity, what should we do, according to Krishna?

Give up
Remain determined and hopeful
Blame others for our misfortune
None of above

7. What is the outcome of being greedy for the fruits of one’s labour according to the Bhagavad
Gita 5.12?
Material success
Entanglement
Union with the divine
None of the above

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8. He is so thrilled after hearing the message of the Bhagavad Gita that he experiences bodily
transformation. What happened to him?( BG 18.75)
His hairs are standing on end
He started crying
He started laughing
He collapsed

9. Pro-social behaviours include:

Volunteering
Cheering
Donation to charity
Both (a) and (c)

10. State any 4 things for which one can be grateful for Krishna:(BG 7.8)
a.
b.
c.
d.

11. Is gratitude a crucial component of a fulfilling life?

Yes, it is
No, it isn’t
It depends on one’s personal beliefs
None of the above

12. Krishna is equal to all. Yet still, he expresses gratitude and friendship for ______
(BG 9.29)

13. What is the concept of “sahyadri pranahuti”?

A method of exploiting natural resources for economic gain
A deep sense of gratitude towards the natural world
A way of overusing the natural resources
None of the above

14. Krishna spoke Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna because:(BG 18.64)

He was sanyasi
He was an expert warrior
His intelligence was better than others
He was a devotee and a very dear friend of Krishna

15. How can we achieve social justice?

Through thoughtful actions
Collective Collaboration

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 Gratitude
All of the above

16. In verse BG 12.6-7, How does Krishna express gratitude to his devotees:
_______________________

17. Which of the following ise an initiative in Brazil that aims to promote sustainable
development?
Green garden initiative
Gratitude in Motion
Gratitude to Nature
All of the above

18. What was the impact of the “Gratitude to Water” project in Chile?
Decreased awareness of water conservation efforts
Increased support for water conservation efforts among community members
Increased overconsumption of water
None of the above

19. State any 4 qualities which make a person very dear to Krishna:(BG 12.13-14)
a.
b.
c.
d.

20. How can gratitude contribute to achieving sustainable development goals?

By promoting negative behaviours
By decreasing individual and collective well-being
By encouraging positive behaviours and fostering positive relationships
None of the above

21. What activities have the “Save the Western Ghats Movement” implemented to protect
biodiversity?
Promoting unsustainable agriculture practices
Encouraging people to exploit the natural resources
Implementing a community-based ecotourism program and educating farmers about the
importance of biodiversity conservation
None of the above

22. Share a real-life story of an individual who underwent personal transformation through
cultivating gratitude. Explain how this person expressed gratitude towards others and how
it contributed to their overall well-being and positive change.

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 23. How can leaders incorporate gratitude into their leadership development programs or
initiatives? Describe a real-life case where a leadership development program emphasized
gratitude as a core value, and discuss the outcomes or benefits observed in the participants’
leadership skills and overall team dynamics.

24. How can an individual or organization practicing community service demonstrate

gratitude towards the community they serve? Describe a real-life situation where a
community service initiative expressed gratitude to the community members and explain
the positive impact it had on the relationship between the two.

25. How does cultivating a sense of gratitude contribute to personal well-being and happiness?
By fostering a negative mindset and pessimism.
By reducing stress levels and increasing resilience.
By promoting isolation and self-centeredness.
By intensifying feelings of envy and dissatisfaction.

26. In a student’s academic journey, how can practicing gratitude contribute to their overall
success?
By hindering focus and productivity.
By promoting a positive mindset and increased motivation.
By causing complacency and lack of ambition.
By limiting creativity and innovation.

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 2

DISCIPLINE
of success
is the
architect
The World: Train your body
The Gita: Train your mind

Work of Imagination
The mind is made up of what? THOUGHTS. There are four broad types of thought –
negative, positive, functional and wasteful.
Imagine your mind to be a room with four different corners, corresponding to the four
types of thoughts. In the room is a big ball of light representing your awareness. Whatever
this ball of light illuminates will dominate your consciousness.
Reflect on your mind’s activity yesterday and identify thoughts that came up under the
various categories:

Functional Positive

Wasteful Negative

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 How much money is spent on gym memberships? How much time is dedicated to grooming the
body? How many elaborate plans are made to invigorate our physical vitality? Keeping the body
fit, healthy and attractive is a top priority for most people. While fixated on the external shell,
however, we may have skipped a beat.

Take a look at your phone. The screen may be cracked, the battery knackered and the cover
ripped, but you’re still carrying it and the phone does its job. If the operating system crashes,
however, the entire gadget becomes defunct; everything grinds to a halt. Attention to the
invisible, intangible and subtle components of anything is absolutely essential. Thus, a wise
person reflects on their life and asks – “I’m maintaining the hardware of my existence, but
what am I doing for the software of my existence?” There’s no point in a beautiful body minus a
beautiful mind.

In Chapter Six, Krishna further explores identity and self-care. As spiritual beings, particles of
consciousness, we possess two bodies, gross and subtle. The gross comprises the visible physical
frame, while the subtle consists of the invisible mind, intelligence and ego. The subtle body acts
as an interface between the spirit and the gross. As spiritual beings, if we can appropriately
harness the mind, it acts as a friend who supports and empowers us in the progressive journey
of life. If not, the mind can deviate, discourage and damage us. It can operate as the unseen
enemy within from day, hour to hour, and moment to moment.

Everyone can appreciate that we need steadiness of mind. When Arjuna, a consummate warrior
of unparalleled strength, confesses that controlling the mind is more difficult than controlling
the wind, Krishna reassures him that it is indeed possible. How? By detachment (vairagya) and
discipline (abhyasa).

First, we must learn to mind our minds; become an observer of the chatter. We shouldn’t fall
into the trap of identifying with every message that goes through our heads. After all, the spirit
soul is beyond the subtle and gross coverings. This vision of non-identification helps us utilise
the positive, functional and empowering thoughts, leaving aside the negative, wasteful and
destructive ones. Some Thoughts, though tempting and exciting, divert us from our purpose.
We shouldn’t give up what we want most, for what feels good now. We learn to ignore many of
the mind’s unwarranted demands through detachment.

Secondly, we need discipline. Former US President, Harry S. Truman once said: “In reading the
lives of great men, I found that The first victory they won was over themselves. Self-discipline with
all of them came first.” Detachment helps quieten the mind, and discipline then remoulds the
mind. Krishna proposes daily spiritual practice with particular emphasis on early morning
meditation. Such transformational practices can shift one’s internal state if embraced with
patience and perseverance. Though we naturally rebel against a regimen, that daily application
is absolutely necessary. Otherwise we fall short of our potential. The pain of discipline is
uncomfortable, but the pain of regret is unbearable.

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 “For him who has conquered the mind,
the mind is the best of friends; but for
one who has failed to do so, his mind will
remain the greatest enemy.”
(Bhagavad-Gita 6.6)

6.34 – The characteristics of an uncontrolled mind.

What can we learn?

The value of discipline serves as a means to harness the mind and achieve steadiness in life.
The passage teaches the importance of discipline in quieting and remoulding the mind and
proposes daily spiritual practice, particularly early morning meditation, to achieve this. The
quote from former US President Harry S. Truman says that self-discipline came first in the
lives of great men and that discipline was necessary to achieve victory over oneself. Discipline
is necessary to reach one’s potential and avoid the pain of regret. It is an essential value for
achieving spiritual and personal growth.

What is discipline
discipline??
Discipline is a term that has been studied and defined in various fields of study, including
psychology, education, sociology, and philosophy. In psychology, discipline is seen as regulating
behaviour by setting rules and limits and using consequences to shape behaviour.

Buddhism says-
“Discipline is the highest of all attainments. No attainment surpasses discipline. He who has
mastered discipline-, masters everything”- Dhammapada 24.5
In education, discipline refers to using rules and consequences to promote self-control and
responsibility in students. The focus is on creating a safe and structured learning environment

Reinforcement for Behaviour

B.F. Skinner’s operant conditioning theory suggests

that discipline involves using positive or negative
reinforcement to encourage desired behaviour and
discourage undesired behaviour.

where students are held accountable for their actions and behaviour.
Sociology addresses discipline as the social norms and expectations that guide behaviour

15
 Activity Corner

In the European Union, the Common Fisheries Policy limits fishing quotas and imposes
penalties on those who exceed these quotas or engage in illegal fishing practices. This
discipline has helped ensure the sustainable use of fish stocks and promote the long-
term viability of the fishing industry.

Role Playing Exercise: Participants take on the roles of various stakeholders in the
fishing industry (Fisherman, environmental advocates, government officials).Explore
the perspectives of different actors and how they are impacted by the policy.

within a particular society or culture. Michel Foucault argues that discipline involves using
power and control to regulate and shape behaviour.

Protecting Forests in Costa Rica

Sustainable forest management practices in Costa

Rica reduced deforestation. IMPACT: regeneration of
degraded forests, increased biodiversity and recovery
of threatened species.

In philosophy, discipline is the practice of self-control and self-regulation. This involves

cultivating habits such as honesty, diligence, and perseverance. Immanuel Kant believed
discipline is crucial to achieving moral autonomy and living a meaningful life.

Environmental Junction
Discipline can promote environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation by
reinforcing responsible behaviour, such as conserving resources, ensuring compliance with
regulations, and using eco-friendly products. Consistent discipline can encourage individuals
to become more environmentally friendly. Regulations and enforcement can hold companies
accountable for their environmental impact and ensure compliance with standards. It can help
prevent habitat destruction, overfishing, and hunting of endangered species. Promoting eco-
friendly farming practices can reduce the impact of agriculture and forestry on wildlife and
ecosystems.

Plastic Ban in Kenya

In Kenya, a ban on plastic bags was enforced in 2017, and anyone found producing, selling, or
using plastic bags could be fined or imprisoned. This discipline led to significant reduction in
plastic waste and improved environmental sustainability.

16
 “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it.”
- Genesis 2.15

Jewish emphasises that humans are responsible for caring for and protecting the natural
world, and that discipline is necessary to fulfil this duty.

Protecting Wildlife in India

The enforcement of wildlife trafficking laws in India

has helped reduce poaching of endangered species
and illegal trade in wildlife products.

Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations provide a framework for
promoting sustainable development, and discipline can ensure that individuals, communities,
and organisations work towards achieving these goals.

Carbon Pricing Policy Impact

The carbon pricing policy implemented in British

Columbia, Canada, led to a 16% reduction in
greenhouse gas emissions from covered sectors and
helped promote renewable energy investments (SDG
13 - climate action).

It promotes responsible behaviour and compliance with regulations. It can help reduce pollution
and ensure sustainable use of natural resources, leading to preservation of the environment

Waste Management in Surat, India

The impact of disciplined waste management practices

in Surat City, India, on sustainable development:
source segregation, composting, and recycling-, can
contribute to the achievement of SDG 12 on responsible
consumption and production.

17
 and economic growth. Adopting sustainable industry practices can reduce environmental
impact and promote social well-being.

Laws and regulations can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote gender equality, and
ensure clean water and sanitation access. Disciplinary measures encourage crucial industries
like energy, agriculture, and transportation to adopt sustainable practices.

Eco-farming

Eco-farming practices lead to improved soil health, increased crop yields, and reduced
greenhouse gas emissions while promoting social and economic benefits for farmers and
their communities - achieving SDG 2 (zero hunger) and SDG 13 (climate action).

Financial incentives and penalties can motivate individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable
development practices, such as investing in renewable energy, reducing waste, and promoting
social equity

Activity Corner
Discipline in Amazon, Brazil

The Brazilian government has implemented strict

regulations to prevent deforestation in the Amazon
rainforest, those found violating these regulations
face hefty fines and imprisonment. This discipline
has led to reduction in deforestation rates and helped
preserve the biodiversity of the Amazon.

Which SDGs are threatened by deforestation activities in the Amazon rainforest?

18
Value Reflection
1. What is the subtle body according to Krishna?
The visible physical frame
The invisible mind, intelligence, and ego
The spirit soul
None of the above

2. Which of the following statements is correct? (Bhagavad Gita 6.6)

Mind is one’s friend
Mind is one’s enemy
Mind can be one’s friend as well an enemy
Mind is neither friend nor enemy

3. What is the importance of discipline?

It helps quieten the mind
It remoulds the mind
It is necessary for achieving one’s potential
All of the above

4. How can the mind be trained to act as one’s friend instead of one’s enemy? (BG 17.16 purport)
a.
b.
c.

5. According to Michel Foucault, how is discipline used to regulate and shape behaviour?
Through cultivating habits such as honesty, diligence, and perseverance
By setting rules and limits and using consequences to shape behaviour
Through subtle mechanisms of surveillance and normalisation
None of the above

6. Based on verse 6.17, list four things that can bring pain and suffering
a.
b.
c.
d.

7. Who believed discipline was crucial for achieving moral autonomy and living
meaningfully?

19
 Immanuel Kant
Michel Foucault
Sigmund Freud
None of the above

8. How can regulations and enforcement promote environmental sustainability in industries

such as mining and agriculture?
By holding companies accountable for their environmental impact and ensuring
compliance with standards
By encouraging companies to maximise their profits without regard for the environment
By promoting the use of non-renewable resources
None of the above

9. Arjuna explains some of the natural characteristics of mind. What are those characteristics?
(BG- 6.34)
a.
b.
c.
d.

10. How has adopted sustainable forest management practices in Costa Rica impacted the
environment?
Increased deforestation rates
Decreased biodiversity
Regenerated degraded forests
None of the above

11. Which industry has benefitted from discipline in the form of fishing quotas and penalties
for illegal fishing practices?
Agriculture
Mining
Fishing
None of the above

12. According to BG 6.35, What are the two ways the mind can be controlled?
a.
b.

13. In which year, did Kenya ban plastic bags?

2009

20
 2017
2018
2010

14. Austerity is something that doesn’t come naturally. One needs to strive for that willingly.
What are the 5 austerities of mind mentioned in verse 17.16?
a.
b.
c.
d.

15. How can discipline impact biodiversity conservation?

By promoting overfishing and hunting of endangered species.
By discouraging eco-friendly farming practices
By promoting responsible behaviour and sustainable practices
None of the above

16. According to Bhagavad Gita 6.6, what is the mind for the one who has conquered it?
The greatest enemy
A friend
An obstacle
A distraction

17. What is the one major reason for mind’s disturbances? (BG 2.66)
_____________________________

18. What is the purpose of enforcing regulations to reduce pollution?

To increase greenhouse gas emissions
To ensure the sustainable use of natural resources
To reduce the impact of industries on the environment
None of the above

19. Which SDG do eco-farming practices contribute to?

SDG 1
SDG 2
SDG 3
None of the above

20. In a professional setting, how does practising discipline in time management contribute to
productivity and efficiency?

21
 It leads to procrastination and delays in completing tasks.
It enhances focus and helps meet deadlines effectively.
It encourages multitasking and divided attention.
It promotes a laid-back attitude and lack of urgency.

21. How does maintaining discipline in health and fitness routines contribute to overall well-
being?
It leads to irregular exercise and unhealthy habits.
It improves physical fitness and supports a healthy lifestyle.
It encourages indulgence in unhealthy food choices.
It causes burnout and excessive stress.

22. In personal finance, how does practising discipline in budgeting and spending contribute
to financial stability?
It promotes impulsive purchases and overspending.
It helps in tracking expenses and saving for future goals.
It leads to financial irresponsibility and excessive debt.
It encourages living beyond one’s means.

23. How does maintaining discipline in studying and learning contribute to academic
achievement?
It results in poor time management and incomplete assignments.
It fosters effective learning and better grades.
It encourages academic dishonesty and cheating.
It leads to excessive stress and anxiety.

22
 3

HAPPINESS
of accepting what is
is a
function
The World: Pursue your Dreams
The Gita: Discover the Reality

A travelling circus had arrived in town, and thousands flocked for a piece of the fun. The
rule, however, was ‘one in, one out’ – only a single customer at a time. When the first lucky
punter entered the blacked-out tent in anticipation, two wrestlers jumped out from nowhere
and gave him a good lashing! He scrambled away, gasping for his life, exiting via the doorway
he came through. There he saw all the eager faces waiting for their turn. “How was it?” they
excitedly asked. He thought: “I queued up all day, paid good money to get in, and if I tell them it
was miserable they’ll think I’m a fool!” He feigned a smile and bluffed – “Brilliant show! You’re in
for a treat!” The following person got the same beating and faced the same expectant crowd on
his exit. “How was it?” they asked. He thought to himself: “The last person had a great time, these
people expected me to have a great time – I better tell them I had a great time.” And so he did. Like
this, hundreds of people went into the circus, paid good money, and had a terrible time, but all
convinced each other it was wonderful. Fool’s Paradise!

Sound familiar? We’re programmed to pursue material dreams in this temporary world - a
successful career, the ideal family life, abundant wealth, comfort and prestige. Following the
trends, we’re told to pump our time, energy and resources into living the dream. We often fall
short of our dreams and; and even when we realise them, the experience is not as exhilarating
as we imagined. Often, we put on a façade to convince the world it’s all going well. A projection
of happiness; smiling faces, starving hearts. Perhaps we’re looking for the right thing-, but in the
wrong place?

In Chapter Fifteen, Krishna compares the material world to an upside-down banyan tree. He
describes how the real tree is the spiritual world, and the reflection in the water is the material
world. In a reflection there is no substance, and therefore no satisfaction. Our expectations
always exceed reality, and we’re left let-down and frustrated. Krishna coaches Arjuna to redirect
his attention from ethereal dreams to eternal reality. All ‘reality’ outside of the spiritual world is
ultimately a dream, and all ‘dreams’ in the spiritual world are tangible reality.

23
 In the metaphysical realm, every step is a dance, every word is a song, every action is motivated
by pure love, and the atmosphere is infused with ever-increasing transcendental happiness.
Sounds good… maybe too good. Sceptics may posit that such ideas are embraced by escapists
desperately seeking solace from life’s inevitable aches and pain. Krishna, however, describes
this physical world as unreal – although our human senses can perceive it, it is constantly
changing and has no endurance in the context of eternity. Far from the spiritual world being
a distraction, the actuality is that the material, physical world is a distraction. To live in reality
means to be fully conscious and aware of one’s eternal identity, purpose and true home.

The soul has three intrinsic qualities - eternality (sat), sentience (cit) and bliss (ananda). When
fairy tales tell us they ‘lived happily ever after,’ it’s an expression of these innate qualities – lived
(cit) happily (ananda) ever after (sat). To fulfil our most cherished, innermost dream, we have to
reinstate ourselves in reality.

“The Supreme Personality of Godhead said: It is said that there is an imperishable banyan tree
that has its roots upward and its branches down and whose leaves are the Vedic hymns. One
who knows this tree is the knower of the Vedas.” (Bhagavad-Gita 15.1)

15.1 – The material world is a perverted reflection of the spiritual world.

15.6 – The captivating beauty of the spiritual world.

What can we learn?

The passage explains that in the spiritual world, every action is motivated by pure love, and
the atmosphere is infused with ever-increasing transcendental happiness. The soul has an
intrinsic quality of bliss (ananda), and the idea of “lived happily ever after” is an expression of
innate qualities of eternality (sat) and sentience (cit). True and lasting happiness can only be
found by redirecting one’s attention from the distractions of the material world and focusing
on one’s eternal identity, purpose, and true home.

What is happiness
happiness??
Happiness involves living a virtuous life and fulfilling one’s potential. It can be about achieving
perfection or finding meaning and purpose in life. It can also be about pursuing your personal
growth and self-actualization. By valuing happiness, we can cultivate a more optimistic and
resilient approach to life, that helps us overcome obstacles and maintain a sense of perspective
and balance.

“Contentment alone is the supreme happiness, for there is no happiness in the world which is not
possessed of contentment.”- Acharya Hemachandra, Yogaśāstra

24
 Jainism highlights the importance of contentment in finding true happiness. According to
them, happiness cannot be found in material possessions or external circumstances, but
rather it comes from within through self-control, detachment, and a sense of inner peace.

Environmental Junction
The role of happiness in achieving environmental sustainability is becoming more apparent
to scholars and policymakers. Happy people are more likely to engage in pro-environmental
behaviours such as reducing their energy consumption, using public transportation, and
recycling. This may be because happy people feel more connected to their communities and
the environment and are therefore more motivated to take actions that benefit them.

Amazing Fact

The village of Hiware Bazar in Maharashtra was once

plagued by drought and poverty. Under its former head,
Popatrao Pawar, the village implemented numerous
sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting,
afforestation, and using renewable energy sources like
solar power.

IMPACT: The village has not experienced drought

in over two decades, and its residents enjoy a high
standard of living and a strong sense of community.

Moreover, happiness also leads to increased support for policies that protect the environment.
Happier people tend to trust others and institutions more, leading to greater support for
sustainability policies, such as renewable energy initiatives and conservation efforts.

25
 Happy Planet Index

The Happy Planet Index (HPI) measures human

well-being and environmental impact. It measures
a country’s efficiency in delivering long and happy
lives to its citizens while maintaining a sustainable
ecological footprint.

What is the HPI of your country? In a group analyse the reasons behind it, share with us
on social media and tag us #GreenGen

LINK: https://happyplanetindex.org/countries/

In addition to the direct impact of happiness on the environment, promoting happiness can also
have indirect positive effects. For instance, happier individuals may be more likely to engage in
activities that promote environmental sustainability, such as volunteering for environmental
organisations or advocating for policy change. Furthermore, promoting happiness can increase
social trust, leading to greater cooperation and support for pro-environmental policies.

Biodiversity Conservation
The role of happiness in achieving biodiversity conservation is a growing area of interest
among conservationists and researchers. Happiness can significantly impact promoting pro-
conservation behaviour and policies, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

Mawas Conservation Program, Indonesia

The Mawas Conservation Program in Central

Kalimantan, Indonesia aims to protect biodiversity
and ecosystem of the Mawas forest and well-being
and livelihoods of local communities. The program has
implemented various measures, such as reforestation,
community-based conservation, and eco-tourism, to
achieve its goals.

IMPACT: Improved conservation status of the forest

and well-being of local communities.

Happier individuals are more likely to support wildlife conservation and habitat protection
policies. This may be due to their higher trust in others and government institutions. Increasing
happiness and social connectedness lead to greater support for conservation initiatives and
more willingness to make personal sacrifices to protect the environment.

26
 Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, South Africa

The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve in South Africa has

implemented a community-based conservation program
promoting the well-being and livelihoods of local
communities while conserving the biodiversity of the
region. The program includes sustainable tourism, eco-
entrepreneurship, and conservation education.

IMPACT: Improved conservation status of the forest and

well-being of local communities.

Sustainable Development Goals

Promoting happiness and well-being is becoming increasingly recognised as an important
factor in achieving sustainable development and the SDGs. People who are happier and more
socially connected are more likely to support sustainable development initiatives and make
personal sacrifices to protect the environment. They will volunteer for social and environmental
causes and advocate for policy change.

Activity Corner
Gross National Happiness in Bhutan

Bhutan has embraced the Gross National Happiness

(GNH) as an alternative to the traditional economic
measure of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). GNH
emphasises sustainable development, cultural
preservation, and environmental conservation,
among other factors. Bhutan’s emphasis on
happiness and well-being has contributed to the
country’s success in achieving several SDGs, such as
SDG 1 on poverty reduction, SDG 3 on health and well-
being, and SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy.

Where does your country rank on the SDG ranking list? Find out about the policies in
place to tackle different development goals by your government.

Amazing Fact

Auroville India is an experimental township in southern India, founded with the aim
of creating a sustainable and spiritually fulfilling community. They have implemented
sustainable practices and technologies like waste management, sustainable agriculture,

27
 and renewable energy to achieve sustainable development goals. They also prioritise
community building and personal growth, hosting numerous events and offering
educational opportunities. Auroville is a model for other communities seeking a sustainable
and fulfilling future.

Furthermore, promoting happiness and well-being are directly linked to several SDGs, such
as SDG 3 on ensuring healthy lives and well-being, SDG 12 on sustainable consumption and
production, and SDG 13 on combating climate change. By promoting happiness and well-being,
countries can work towards achieving these SDGs and contribute to creating a sustainable
future.

28
Value Reflection
1. What is the atmosphere of the spiritual world?
Frustrating and disappointing
Infused with ever- increasing transcendental happiness
Confusing and overwhelming
None of the above

2. What does Krishna coach Arjuna to do?

Pursue material dreams
Redirect his attention from ethereal dreams to eternal reality
Escape from reality
Have unrealistic expectations

3. Habits determine the quality and experience of life. Focussing on certain habits would
enable high productivity, health, and a wholesome life experience. What are those habits?
(BG 6.17)
a.
b.
c.
d.

4. How can valuing happiness help us in life?

By cultivating a more optimistic and resilient approach to life
By helping us to overcome obstacles
By maintaining a sense of perspective and balance
All of the above

5. The knowledge mentioned in Bhagavad Gita carries certain traits. List 5 traits of the
same:(BG 9.2)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

6. What is the relationship between happiness and pro-environmental behaviours?

Happy people are less likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviours
Happy people are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviours

29
 Happiness has no impact on pro-environmental behaviours
None of the above

7. How does happiness affect support for policies that protect the environment?
It decreases support for such policies
It has no impact on support for such policies
It increases support for such policies

8. What sustainable practices has Hiware Bazar implemented to combat drought ?

Afforestation
Rainwater harvesting
Renewable energy sources
All of the above

9. Preface: People in general, especially in this Age of Kali, are enamored by the external
energy of Krishna, and they wrongly think that by the advancement of material comforts
every man will be happy. They have no knowledge that the material or external nature is
very strong, for everyone is strongly bound by the stringent laws of material nature.
What is one of the biggest deceptions of modern times?
_______________________________________________

10. How can happiness increase support for conservation policies and initiatives?
By decreasing trust in others and government institutions
By increasing trust in others and government institutions
By increasing opposition to conservation policies
None of the above

11. What is the potential impact of promoting social connectedness on biodiversity

conservation?
Indirect positive effects
Direct negative effects
Indirect negative effects
Both B and C.

12. Based on verses 18.37-39, mark the following kind of happiness with the correct mode
(Goodness, Passion, or Ignorance)
Poison in beginning
Nectar at first
Delusional in beginning
Poison in end

30
 Nectar in the end
Delusion in the end

13. Which country has implemented a community-based conservation program in the

Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve?
India
South Africa
Indonesia
Bhutan

14. Which SDG has Bhutan succeeded in by emphasizing happiness and well-being?
SDG 1 on poverty reduction
SDG 3 on health and well-being
SDG 5 on gender equality
SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy

15. BG Introduction: We are all hankering after pleasure. Änanda-mayo ‘bhyäsät (Vedanta-
sutra 1.1.12). The living entities, like the Lord, are full of consciousness, and they are after
happiness. The Lord is perpetually happy, and if the living entities associate with the Lord,
cooperate with Him and take part in His association, then they also become happy.
Why does a living entity seek happiness? What is the process of experiencing happiness
according to Bhagavad Gita?
___________________________
___________________________

16. What is the link between social connectedness and support for sustainable development?
Social connectedness decreases support for sustainable development.
Social connectedness has no impact on support for sustainable development.
Social connectedness increases support for sustainable development.
None of the above

17. Why are happier individuals more likely to engage in activities that promote sustainable
development?
They have more free time.
They are more socially connected.
They are more affluent.
They are less contempt

18. According to BG 18.54,a satisfied and joyful person has two symptoms. What are those?
a.

31
 b.
19. In real-life career decision-making, how does prioritising happiness contribute to long-
term job satisfaction?
It leads to unfulfilling and stressful work experiences.
It aligns personal values and passions with career choices.
It promotes a focus on financial rewards over personal fulfilment.
It encourages frequent job changes and instability.

20. How does prioritising happiness in relationships contribute to their overall quality?
It fosters emotional distance and a lack of commitment.
It promotes open communication and mutual understanding.
It encourages conflicts and disagreements.
It leads to unrealistic expectations and disappointment.

21. How does promoting happiness within a community contribute to its overall well-being
and cohesion?
It fosters division and conflicts among community members.
It encourages social connections and a sense of belonging.
It promotes a focus on individual happiness at the expense of others.
It leads to a lack of community involvement and apathy.

22. How can achieving a healthy work-life balance contribute to overall happiness and well-
being? Provide examples of specific actions individuals can take to prioritise happiness in
their professional and personal lives.

23. How can prioritising personal happiness influence the outcomes in making major
life decisions? Share a real-life example where an individual prioritised their happiness
when making a significant decision, and discuss its impact on their overall well-being and
satisfaction.

32
 4

ALTRUISM
of happiness
is the
best source
The World: Try to be Happy
The Gita: Try to Serve

Mothers are special. In an attempt to estimate the monetary value of ‘motherly love,’
researchers spent a week following one around. A typical day involved being a cabbie, cook,
cleaner and counsellor to name but a few. They calculated the overtime the mother put in, and
the unwavering dedication for years on end without any time off (even on family holidays she
was fully on-call). After crunching the numbers, they discovered that to employ such a mother
would set you back in the region of £100,000 a year!

That, however, doesn’t tell you the whole story; the quality of the job is what really stands
out. The service of a mother is selfless and unceasing. They rarely stipulate any expectation
in return for their services and jump at the opportunity to go beyond the call of duty. What
to speak of receiving benefits, even when children act in dismissive and ungrateful ways, the
mother happily continues to serve. Their sacrifice unfailingly continues day after day, and even
when the child becomes a grown adult the outpouring of motherly love doesn’t subside.

Ancient scriptures explain how our actions towards God and all living beings should emulate
this quality of selflessness. By offering our lives in service, unmotivated and uninterrupted, we
experience profound satisfaction and fulfillment which otherwise remains elusive. While this
may be hard to conceive of, the living example of magnanimous mothers gives us an insight
into what real selflessness looks like. Ask any mother and they know the satisfaction they feel.
Srila Prabhupada explained how the love between mother and child is the purest form of love
found in this world. How wonderful if we could take some moments to remember this, foster
a mood of gratitude, and reproduce that selfless spirit in our spiritual endeavours. It would
change our life, and it would surely change the world around us.

In Gita’s final chapter, Krishna brings home the essence of His teachings – it’s service that
awakens love, and love which satisfies the heart. The boy-saint, Prahlada, reveals a striking
truth about happiness: “One is happy as long as one does not endeavour for happiness; as soon
as one begins his activities for happiness, his conditions of distress begin.” In our frantic attempts

33
 to find happiness we miss the whole point. Happiness comes from serving, from sacrificing,
from selflessly giving. Pleasure derived from anything else will be fleeting at best. Krishna thus
implores Arjuna to dedicate his life to selfless service.

It’s interesting to think of a worldview where we are not the centre. How can I not think about
myself first? It seems alien, unfulfilling and even scary. Ironically, that utter selflessness brings
one to the most profound level of spirituality. Water the roots, and the whole tree automatically
becomes satisfied. Feed the stomach and the entire body is nourished.

When our frantic search for selfish happiness stops, and we instead absorb ourselves in selfless
service to God and His parts, we perfect our spirituality and experience the true satisfaction of
the soul. Nothing mystical, magical or esoteric about it: just the simple eagerness to serve. It’s
that simple. So simple, Srila Prabhupada once said, that we may just miss it.

“Because you are My very dear friend, I am speaking to you My supreme instruction, the most
confidential knowledge of all. Hear this from Me, for it is for your benefit.”
(Bhagavad-Gita 18.64)

18.37-39 – Three types of happiness in this world.

18.55 – Devotional service brings one to the perfectional stage of life.

What can we learn?

A mother’s selfless service towards her children is the epitome of altruism. The author estimates
that the value of a mother’s love and service would be around £100,000 a year, but what is more
remarkable is the selflessness and dedication with which she serves without any expectation
of reward or recognition. This quality of selflessness is emphasised in ancient scriptures, by
offering our lives in service, we can experience profound satisfaction and fulfilment. True
happiness comes from serving others selflessly and dedicating our lives to selfless service to
God and His parts. Altruism can help us lead a fulfilling and satisfying life.

What is altruism
altruism??
Altruism means helping others without expecting anything in return. It has been studied by
experts in different fields. Biologists say altruism helps a specie survive because those who help
others have a better chance of passing on their genes.

“Caring about the happiness of others, we find our own.” — Plato

34
 Toms’s One for One

Toms Shoes is a company that donates a pair of shoes

to a child in need for every pair of shoes sold. This “One
for One” campaign has been a successful marketing
strategy for the company, attracting socially conscious
consumers who want to make a positive impact.

Psychologists define altruism as helping others without benefiting oneself, driven by empathy,
compassion, and the desire to help. Philosophers say being selfless is necessary for a fair and
ethical society, treating others as we would want to be treated. Sociologists see altruism as
something we learn from society and is reinforced by social norms. Finally, economists see
altruism as a way to build social capital, leading to trust, cooperation, and social cohesion,
creating positive outcomes for the economy and society.

Don’t Buy This Jacket!

Patagonia is a company known for its commitment

to environmental conservation. Its “Don’t Buy This
Jacket” campaign encouraged consumers to buy
less and reuse more to reduce their environmental
footprint. The campaign was a bold move for a
company that relies on sales, but succeeded in
building brand loyalty among conscious consumers.

How did Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign promote altruism among
consumers?

Coca Cola

Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” campaign allowed

customers to personalise Coke bottles with their
names or names of friends and family members.
The campaign successfully promoted social
connections and generated buzz on social media.

How did the “Share a Coke” campaign be modified or expanded to promote altruism and
support social causes like sustainability or community-based initiatives?

Environmental Junction
People may adopt eco-friendly habits such as recycling, reducing energy consumption, and

35
 taking public transport because they believe these actions benefit the planet and others, even
without immediate reward. The concern for others, including future generations and non-
human species, can motivate individuals to take pro-environmental steps.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef Foundation is a non-profit

organisation that works to protect and conserve the
Great Barrier Reef in Australia. They have partnered
with corporate sponsors to fund research and
conservation projects, and create awareness.

How does the partnership between the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and corporate
sponsors align with the values of altruism and promote the well-being of others?

Altruism can promote collaboration and collective action with a sense of shared responsibility
to protect the environment and the welfare of others. Altruistic values can spur political action
by supporting conservation policies, environmental organizations, and advocating for greater
environmental protection.

Amazing Fact

The Amazon Conservation Association works to protect the biodiversity of the Amazon
rainforest in South America. They partner with local communities to promote sustainable
land use practices, research and advocate for conservation policies.

Biodiversity Conservation
People’s concern for the welfare of other species can motivate them to take action to protect
them, such as reducing ecological impact and supporting conservation organisations.

Amazing Fact

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is a non-

profit organisation that works to conserve wildlife
and ecosystems in more than 60 countries. They
use a multi-disciplinary approach, combining
scientific research, policy advocacy, and community
engagement to promote sustainable conservation
practices.

Altruistic behavior creates social norms around conservation by showing others the importance
of biodiversity. Being altruistic towards other species creates an emotional bond with nature,

36
increasing the likelihood of engaging in conservation efforts. Recognising the value of nature
beyond its benefits to humans is vital to biodiversity conservation, altruism can help achieve
this goal.

Amazing Fact

The Gorilla Doctors is a non-profit organisation

that works to protect and conserve endangered
mountain gorillas in Africa. They provide medical
care to gorillas in the wild, monitor their health,
and work with local communities to reduce human-
wildlife conflicts.

Several barriers hinder people’s altruistic behaviour towards biodiversity conservation. One is
lack of awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the impact of human activities on
natural ecosystems. Another is the perception of distance between humans and other species,
making it difficult for people to feel personally connected to conservation efforts.

Amazing Fact

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a non-profit

organisation that works to protect biodiversity
and promote sustainable development worldwide.
They work with governments, businesses, and
communities to develop conservation policies,
fund research and conservation projects, and raise
awareness of the importance of biodiversity.

Prioritisation of immediate needs over long-term conservation goals and conflicting values can
hinder altruistic behaviour towards conservation. Limited access to information and resources
can be a barrier, especially for marginalised communities. Promoting awareness, education,
and access to resources is crucial to overcome these barriers. It is important to emphasise
the intrinsic value of biodiversity and the interconnectedness of all living things to encourage
people to feel personal responsibility towards conservation efforts.

Amazing Fact

The Nature Conservancy is a non-profit that works to

protect and conserve natural areas and biodiversity
worldwide. They use a science-based approach,
working with governments, businesses, and
communities to develop sustainable conservation
solutions.

37
 Sustainable Development Goals
Altruistic values can inspire people to support poverty reduction efforts, such as education and
job creation programs, and promote fair trade practices that help marginalized communities
(Goal 1). It can encourage sustainable agriculture practices and reduction of food waste to
help eliminate hunger and improve food security (Goal 2). By promoting healthy lifestyles,
supporting access to healthcare, and advocating for policies that prioritize public health,
altruism can improve health and well-being (Goal 3). It can promote responsible consumption
and production by encouraging people to reduce their ecological footprint and support
sustainable business practices (Goal 12). By supporting renewable energy, climate policies, and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions, altruism can mitigate and adapt to climate change (Goal
13). Overall, recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things and prioritizing the well-
being of others is key to achieving a more equitable and sustainable future, and altruism can
help us get there.

Amazing Fact

B1G1 (Buy1Give1) is a global giving platform that connects businesses with non-profit
organizations and social enterprises to help achieve the SDGs. The platform allows
businesses to incorporate giving into their daily operations and helps them track the impact
of their giving.

“Buy one, give one” with Warby Parker

Warby Parker is an eyewear company that uses a “buy one, give one” business model to
provide eyeglasses to people in need. For every pair of glasses purchased, Warby Parker
donates a pair to someone in need through their non-profit partners.

38
Faith-based organizations
Faith-based organisations (FBOs) can be a powerful force in inspiring people to act altruistically
towards biodiversity conservation. They have strong moral and ethical principles that
emphasise the importance of caring for others and the natural world which can motivate
individuals to participate in conservation efforts. FBOs can teach their members about the
significance of biodiversity and how human activities affect the environment, which can instil a
sense of responsibility to protect the natural world.

Amazing Fact

The Catholic Conservation Center is a non-profit organization that works with Catholic
institutions, organizations, and individuals to promote conservation efforts guided by
Catholic social teaching. They use a faith-based approach to conservation that emphasizes
the importance of protecting God’s creation and caring for the poor and vulnerable.

FBO members are involved in conservation projects that benefit the community, like planting
trees or restoring habitats. They can use their moral authority to lobby for policies and programs
promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, influencing decision-
makers and encouraging change. FBOs also practise what they preach by adopting eco-friendly
practices within their own operations, like reducing waste and energy consumption. Their role
in promoting altruism for biodiversity conservation highlights the importance of values and
ethics in shaping attitudes and behaviours towards the environment.

39
 Value Reflection
1. What is the source of true satisfaction of the soul?
Selfish happiness
Selfless service to God and His parts
Frantic search for happiness
Magnanimous mothers

2. What does Krishna implore Arjuna to do in the final chapter of the Gita?
Dedicate his life to selfish pursuits and personal gain
Renounce all worldly activities and live a life of solitude and meditation
Engage in selfless service to God and His parts
Seek happiness and fulfillment through material possessions and pleasures

3. The act of altruism requires freedom from three things. What are they?(BG 3.30)
a. Freedom from _____
b. Freedom from ______
c. Freedom from ________

4. What does Srila Prabhupada say about the love between mother and child?
It is a rare form of love found in this world
It is a form of love that is selfish and conditional
It is a form of love that is fleeting and temporary
It is a form of love that is based on expectations and demands

5. How can altruism promote collaborative action for environmental protection?

By encouraging individualistic behaviour
By promoting wasteful behaviour
By fostering a sense of shared responsibility for protecting the environment and the
welfare of others
By discouraging collective action

6. What are the characteristics of charity in mode of goodness?(BG 17.20)

Given out of duty
Without expectations in return
Given at proper time

40
 Given at proper place
Given to worthy person
None of above
All of the above

7. How does the Amazon Conservation Association promote sustainable land use practices?
By partnering with local communities
By promoting wasteful behaviour
By advocating for greater environmental protection
By discouraging collective action

8. What is the result of performing action with a sense of doership?(B.G- 18.39)

Accumulation of sin
Liberation from the cycle of birth and death
Material success and prosperity
None of the above

9. Preface: A living entity is happily the part and parcel of the Lord, and thus his natural
function is to render immediate service to the Lord. By the spell of illusion one tries to be
happy by serving his personal sense gratification in different forms which will never make
him happy. Instead of satisfying his own personal material senses, he has to satisfy the
senses of the Lord. That is the highest perfection of life.
There can be various levels of altruism and offering services. Among all such levels, which is
considered as the most perfect service?
____________________________________________

10. How can altruistic behaviour towards other species increase engagement in conservation
efforts?
By creating an emotional bond with nature
By decreasing awareness about the importance of biodiversity
By promoting distance between humans and other species
By prioritizing immediate needs over long term conservation goals

11. What is the focus of the Gorilla Doctors non-profit organization?

To protect and conserve natural areas and biodiversity worldwide
To provide medical care to gorillas in the wild
To develop sustainable conservation solutions

41
 To fund research and conservation projects

12. According to Bhagavad Gita 18.37, what is the cause of ignorance?

Greed
Hated
Attachment
Fear

13. According BG 17.21, which of the following is NOT a characteristic of charity in mode of
passion?
Given with expectations of some return
Given in a grudging mood
Given under some obligation
Given at improper time and place

14. How can altruism help achieve Goal 2 of the Sustainable Development Goals?
By promoting responsible consumption
By encouraging sustainable agriculture practices and reducing food waste
By supporting access to healthcare
By advocating for policies that prioritize public health

15. What is the role of FBOs in promoting sustainable development?

To reduce waste and energy consumption in their operations
To instill a sense of responsibility to protect the natural world in their members
To lobby for policies and programs that promote biodiversity conservation
To promote unsustainable practices within their own operations

16. What is the approach of the Catholic Conservation Center to conservation efforts?
A faith-based approach that emphasizes the importance of protecting God’s creation and
caring for the poor and vulnerable
A secular approach that prioritizes economic development over environmental protection
A technocratic approach that relies on scientific research and development
A market-based approach that promotes the privatization of natural resources.

17. What is the ultimate goal of a renowned person?(BG-18.55)

To attain heaven
To achieve liberation

42
 To gain material success
To become famous

18. Bhagavad Gita doesn’t discriminate in charity. It can be given to anyone, anywhere at any
time and for any purpose.(BG- 17.22)
True
False

19. What is B1G1?

A non-profit organisation that provides eyeglasses to the people in need
A global giving platform that connects businesses with non-profit organizations and
social enterprises
A charity that works to achieve the SDGs through advocacy and education
An organization that provides job training and employment opportunities to
disadvantaged communities

20. What was the purpose of Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign?
To encourage consumers to buy less and reuse more
To encourage consumers to buy more products from Patagonia
To promote environment conservation
To raise awareness about the impacts of consumerism on the environment

21. Arjuna had to perform a great altruistic act of spreading religion and extricating irreligion
for the benefit of people at large. According to Bhagavad Gita 2.7, what can be a hurdle in
performing welfare activities?
Miserly weakness
Soft heart
Narrow vision
All of the above

22. How does altruism play a role in emergency response situations, such as natural disasters
or humanitarian crises? Describe a real-life example where individuals or organisations
demonstrated selfless acts of kindness and discuss the positive impact it had on the
affected communities.

23. In healthcare, how does practicing altruism contribute to patient care and overall well-
being? Share a real-life case where healthcare professionals went above and beyond their

43
 duties to prioritize the well-being of their patients and discuss the outcomes and benefits
of their selfless actions.

24. How does altruism drive individuals and organizations to take action for the betterment of
the environment? Provide examples of real-life environmental conservation initiatives led
by altruistic individuals or groups and discuss the positive effects they had on the
environment and surrounding communities.

25. How does altruism manifest in supporting educational opportunities for underprivileged
individuals? Share a real-life example where individuals or organizations extended their
support to provide educational resources or scholarships and discuss the transformative
impact it had on the lives of the beneficiaries.

26. In a real-life disaster relief situation, how does altruistic behaviour positively impact
affected communities?
It exacerbates conflicts and increases tension among community members.
It provides immediate relief and support to those in need.
It hinders recovery efforts by causing confusion and chaos.
It prioritises personal gain over the well-being of others.

27. In a real-life volunteering scenario, how does altruistic service impact the volunteer and
the community?
It creates dependency and reduces community self-sufficiency.
It fosters a sense of purpose and strengthens community bonds.
It leads to exploitation and misuse of resources.
It promotes individualism and discourages collective efforts.

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 Answer Key

Gratitude
1. C 11. A
2. B 12. those who render service unto Him in
3. Removing his illusion, regaining his devotion
memory, clearing his doubts, preparing 13. B
him for action. 14. D
4. C 15. D
5. - 16. by promising to be their swift
6. B deliverer from the ocean of birth and
7. B death.
8. A 17. B
9. D 18. B
10. The taste of water; The light of the sun 19. -
and the moon; The syllable “Om” in the 20. C
Vedic mantras; The sound in the ether 21. C
(space); The ability in man

Discipline
1. B 10. C
2. C 11. C
3. D 12. Practise and detachment
4. - 13. B
5. C 14. Satisfaction, simplicity, gravity, self-
6. Unregulated habits of eating, sleeping, control and purification
recreation and work 15. C
7. A 16. B
8. A 17. Attachment to sense objects
9. Restless, turbulent, obstinate, very 18. C
strong 19. B

45
 Happiness
1. B 11. A
2. B 12. Ignorance, goodness, passion,
3. Regulated habits of eating, sleeping, passion, goodness, ignorance
recreation, work 13. B
4. D 14. B
5. King of education, most secret of all 15. -
secrets, purest knowledge, gives direct 16. C
perception of the self by realisation, 17. B
perfection of religion 18. a. Such a person realises the Supreme
6. B Brahman
7. C b. Such a person becomes fully joyful, free
8. D from lamentation and desire for material
9. - possessions
10. B

Altruism
1. B 11. B
2. C 12. C
3. Attachment, aversion, delusion 13. C
4. A 14. B
5. C 15. B
6. G 16. A
7. A 17. B
8. A 18. B
9. To satisfy the senses of the Lord by 19. B
rendering immediate service to Him 20. A
10. A 21. D

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Appendix
Bhagvad Gita Verses

BG Introduction -
We are all hankering after pleasure. Änanda-mayo ‘bhyäsät (Vedänta-sütra 1.1.12). The living
entities, like the Lord, are full of consciousness, and they are after happiness. The Lord is perpetually
happy, and if the living entities associate with the Lord, cooperate with Him and take part in His
association, then they also become happy.

BG. 2.7 -
Now I am confused about my duty and have lost all composure because of miserly weakness. In
this condition I am asking You to tell me for certain what is best for me. Now I am Your disciple, and
a soul surrendered unto You. Please instruct me.

BG 2.66 purport -
Disturbance is due to want of an ultimate goal, and when one is certain that Kåñëa is the enjoyer,
proprietor and friend of everyone and everything, then one can, with a steady mind, bring about
peace

BG 3.30 -
Therefore, O Arjuna, surrendering all your works unto Me, with full knowledge of Me, without
desires for profit, with no claims to proprietorship, and free from lethargy, fight.

BG 5.12-
Offering the results of all activities to God, the karm yogis attain everlasting peace. Whereas those
who, being impelled by their desires, work with a selfish motive become entangled because they
are attached to the fruits of their actions.

BG 6.5 -
One must deliver himself with the help of his mind, and not degrade himself. The mind is the friend
of the conditioned soul, and his enemy as well.

BG 6.6 -
For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to
do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy.

BG 6.17 -
He who is regulated in his habits of eating, sleeping, recreation and work can mitigate all material
pains by practicing the yoga system.

BG 6.34 -
The mind is restless, turbulent, obstinate and very strong, O Kåñëa, and to subdue it, I think, is
more difficult than controlling the wind.

BG 6.35 -
Lord Çré Kåñëa said: O mighty-armed son of Kunté, it is undoubtedly very difficult to curb the

47
 restless mind, but it is possible by suitable practice and by detachment.

BG 7.8 -
O son of Kunté, I am the taste of water, the light of the sun and the moon, the syllable oà in the Vedic
mantras; I am the sound in ether and ability in man.

BG 7.9 -
I am the original fragrance of the earth, and I am the heat in fire. I am the life of all that lives, and I
am the penances of all ascetics.

BG 9.2 -
This knowledge is the king of education, the most secret of all secrets. It is the purest knowledge,
and because it gives direct perception of the self by realization, it is the perfection of religion. It is
everlasting, and it is joyfully performed.

BG 9.29 -
I envy no one, nor am I partial to anyone. I am equal to all. But whoever renders service unto Me in
devotion is a friend, is in Me, and I am also a friend to him.

BG 12.13-14
One who is not envious but is a kind friend to all living entities, who does not think himself a
proprietor and is free from false ego, who is equal in both happiness and distress, who is tolerant,
always satisfied, self-controlled, and engaged in devotional service with determination, his
mind and intelligence fixed on Me-such a devotee of Mine is very dear to Me.

BG 12.6-7 -
But those who worship Me, giving up all their activities unto Me and being devoted to Me without
deviation, engaged in devotional service and always meditating upon Me, having fixed their minds
upon Me, O son of Påthä-for them I am the swift deliverer from the ocean of birth and death.

BG 17.16 -
And satisfaction, simplicity, gravity, self-control and purification of one’s existence are the
austerities of the mind.

BG 17.16 purport -
To make the mind austere is to detach it from sense gratification. It should be so trained that it can
be always thinking of doing good for others. The best training for the mind is gravity in thought.

BG 17.20 -
Charity given out of duty, without expectation of return, at the proper time and place, and to a
worthy person is considered to be in the mode of goodness.

BG 17.21 -
But charity performed with the expectation of some return, or with a desire for fruitive results, or in
a grudging mood, is said to be charity in the mode of passion.

BG 17.22 -

48
And charity performed at an impure place, at an improper time, to unworthy persons, or without
proper attention and respect is said to be in the mode of ignorance.

BG 18.37 -
That which in the beginning may be just like poison but at the end is just like nectar and which
awakens one to self-realization is said to be happiness in the mode of goodness.

BG 18.38 -
That happiness which is derived from contact of the senses with their objects and which appears
like nectar at first but poison at the end is said to be of the nature of passion.

BG 18.39 -
And that happiness which is blind to self-realization, which is delusion from beginning to end and
which arises from sleep, laziness and illusion is said to be of the nature of ignorance.

BG 18.54 -
One who is thus transcendentally situated at once realizes the Supreme Brahman and becomes
fully joyful. He never laments or desires to have anything. He is equally disposed toward every
living entity. In that state he attains pure devotional service unto Me.

BG 18.64 -
Because you are My very dear friend, I am speaking to you My supreme instruction, the most
confidential knowledge of all. Hear this from Me, for it is for your benefit.

BG 18.73 -
Arjuna said: My dear Kåñëa, O infallible one, my illusion is now gone. I have regained my memory
by Your mercy. I am now firm and free from doubt and am prepared to act according to Your
instructions.

BG 18.74 -
Saïjaya said: Thus have I heard the conversation of two great souls, Kåñëa and Arjuna. And so
wonderful is that message that my hair is standing on end.

BG 18.75 -
By the mercy of Vyäsa, I have heard these most confidential talks directly from the master of all
mysticism, Kåñëa, who was speaking personally to Arjuna.

49
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 Credits
Book Copy
“Based on Gita3 © 2022 by S.B. Keshava Swami, used with permission.”

Book Conceptualisation
Dr. Suruchi Mittar
Ms. Kuhu Ganguli

Scripture English Copy

Premanjana Das

Hindi Translation
Vishnu Svarupa Das

Copy and Editing

Aditi Agrawal (First author)
Vartika Nijhawan

Design Team
Overall design conceptualisation
Ms. Pooja Kohli(Design Head)

Illustrations
Tiara Mehrotra

Book Layout Formatting and Graphics

Sucharita Basu

Gita3: http://gita3.keshavaswami.com/
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