Concept
Nishkama Karma: FAQ & Sources
निष्काम कर्मNishkama karma is acting with full effort but without clinging to the outcome. It is the Gita's central practical teaching, stated most famously in verse 2.47.
Frequently asked questions
What is nishkama karma?
Action performed without craving for its fruits: full effort, calm acceptance of the result.
Which Gita verse teaches nishkama karma?
Verse 2.47 is the best known; 2.48, 3.19 and 5.10 develop it.
Does nishkama karma mean not caring about results?
No. It means not letting craving for results distort the action; careful planning and effort still matter.
Is nishkama karma the same as karma yoga?
It is the core principle of karma yoga, the path of selfless action.
How can I practise it at work?
Focus on doing the task well, hold the goal lightly, and accept praise and criticism evenly.
Sources and further reading
- Bhagavad Gita, Chapters 2, 3 and 5
- Commentaries of Shankara and Ramanuja on the Gita
- Mahabharata, Bhishma Parva
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