Gita Acharan

A recent debate on offering milk into river has brought two opposing views into focus. One perceives it as a sacred tradition worthy of respect, while the other views it as a misuse of valuable resources. The issue can be understood through the principles enshrined in the Bhagavad Gita.

Gita says that when our senses meet sense objects, the polarities of pleasure and pain arise (2.14) which ultimately lead to raag (attachment) and dwesh (aversion) (6.34). Though this process is natural and instantaneous, the key question is how we respond to it.

One response is to gather evidence to support the feelings of attachment or aversion which is akin to taking decision first and collecting evidence subsequently. This often leads to endless debates, inner agitation, and social friction. Arjuna faced a similar dilemma on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Overpowered by aversion at the thought of harming his own people, he gathered many justifications for withdrawing from the battle.

Another approach is to realise the second principle that these polarities are anitya (transient) and we should learn to tolerate them (2.14). The idea is to pause momentarily when these polarities arise, allowing us to maintain inner balance. This can be illustrated through the metaphor of the ocean, which remains undisturbed even as countless rivers flow into it (2.70).

Krishna says that the best devotee is one who neither gets agitated nor agitates the world (12.15). When we recognize that our actions may generate agitation, it is wise to refrain from them. This may include reconsidering whether to share such issues at all and how we choose to respond to them.

While there is no good or bad response, the key is to perform our role with dedication (18.45) like an artist in a drama with a rider that we don’t agitate the world with our words or deeds. / DAILY WORLD /

( K. Siva Prasad is an IAS officer of Punjab cadre and these writings can be accessed at gitaacharan.org )