Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani.

Shloka

कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।
मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि।।
(Bhagavad Gita 2.47)

Transliteration

Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana,
Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani.

Translation

You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction.

Explanation

This shloka, delivered by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, is one of the most profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Let’s break it down:

1. कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते (Karmanye Vadhikaraste)
   • “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties.”
   • This means that our focus should be on our duties and responsibilities. We should put our efforts into our actions without worrying about the outcome.
2. मा फलेषु कदाचन (Ma Phaleshu Kadachana)
   • “But you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”
   • This suggests that we should not be attached to the results of our actions. The outcomes are not always in our control, and being fixated on them can lead to disappointment and stress.
3. मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूः (Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhur)
   • “Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities.”
   • This emphasizes that while we should act to the best of our abilities, the results are influenced by many factors beyond our control. We should not take sole credit or blame for the outcomes.
4. मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि (Ma Te Sangostva Akarmani)
   • “Nor be attached to inaction.”
   • This warns against falling into the trap of inaction due to fear of failure or attachment to results. We should continue to perform our duties without hesitation or laziness.

Practical Application

• Focus on Effort, Not Outcome: Concentrate on doing your best in any task, without being overly concerned about the result. This can reduce anxiety and increase satisfaction.
• Detachment: Develop a sense of detachment from the results. This doesn’t mean not caring about the outcomes, but rather not letting them dictate your happiness or sense of self-worth.
• Avoid Procrastination: Do not avoid taking action due to fear of failure or uncertainty about results. Consistent effort is key to progress.
• Balanced Life: Maintain a balanced approach by giving your best and accepting whatever results come with equanimity.

Conclusion

This shloka from the Bhagavad Gita teaches a powerful life lesson: focus on your duties, do your best, and detach yourself from the outcomes. This philosophy can lead to a more peaceful and contented life, reducing stress and increasing productivity