🕉️Sanskrit Subhashit

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj elaborates on the psychological truth that society looks up to its leaders. Whatever a 'Samartha' (a capable, wise, or influential person) does, it becomes a benchmark for others. Common people tend to imitate the actions of those they respect rather than following abstract theories. Therefore, the standard of behavior set by the elite or the wise becomes the social norm. This places a heavy moral responsibility on leaders to act righteously, as their lifestyle serves as a silent teaching for the masses.

This principle is vital in leadership and parenting. For example, if a manager in a company is punctual and ethical, the employees naturally adopt those values. Leading by example is more effective than giving instructions.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains how the actions of a leader or a wise person set a precedent for the rest of society.

Saint Dnyaneshwar uses a beautiful analogy of a boat to explain the concept of Nishkama Karma. Just as a boat, which floats on water, is the only means to cross that very water, selfless action is the only way to transcend the cycle of birth and death caused by actions. When an individual performs their duty without the ego of being the 'doer' and without craving the results, the action itself becomes a tool for liberation rather than a cause of bondage.

In professional life, focus on the quality of your work rather than obsessing over the promotion or bonus. By treating your work as a service, you eliminate stress and achieve excellence, effectively using 'work' to free yourself from the 'anxiety of work'.

Shri Krishna explains to Arjuna how performing actions without attachment leads to the dissolution of the bondage of Karma.

In this verse, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj emphasizes the essence of selfless action. He advises that one should not act based on whims but should perform actions that are 'Uchita' (appropriate to the situation) and 'Vihita' (prescribed as one's duty). The most critical aspect is to perform these actions 'Uttam' (with excellence) while completely renouncing 'Phalasha' (the craving for results). By detaching oneself from the outcome, the individual is freed from the psychological burden of anxiety, allowing for total immersion and perfection in the task at hand.

In a professional setting, a leader should focus on the integrity and quality of the project (duty) rather than obsessing over the potential promotion or praise (fruit). This leads to genuine excellence and mental stability.

Saint Dnyaneshwar explains Lord Krishna's teaching on how to perform one's duties without being bound by the desire for rewards.