Karmaṇi eva adhikāraḥ te mā phaleṣu kadācana mā karma phala taiṣiṇā

Te (your) karmaṇi (in action) eva (alone) adhikāraḥ (right or authority) mā (not) kadācana (ever) phaleṣu (in the fruits) mā (not) taiṣiṇā (be a desirer) karma-phala (of the fruit of action)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse underscores the fundamental principle of non-dualism, where the individual's true nature, ātman, is not bound by the fruits of actions. According to Śaṅkara, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā (BG 4.23), the phrase 'mā phaleṣu kadācana' signifies that the seeker should not be motivated by the desire for the fruits of actions, as this perpetuates the cycle of birth and death. The focus on 'karmaṇyevādhikāraḥ' (right to perform actions) without attachment to outcomes points towards the realization of brahman-ātman identity, where the individual Self (ātman) is ultimately one with the universal Brahman. This realization liberates the individual from the bondage of karma, leading to mokṣa or liberation. Śaṅkara's commentary emphasizes that true freedom lies in performing actions as a duty, without being driven by personal desires or expectations, thus facilitating the understanding of the non-dual nature of reality.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is interpreted through the lens of devotion and the relationship between the jīva (individual soul) and Īśvara (the Lord). Rāmānujācārya, in his commentary on the Bhagavad Gītā, emphasizes that the verse teaches the importance of performing actions as an offering to the Lord, without desiring the fruits for oneself. The phrase 'mā karma-phala-taiṣiṇā' is seen as an injunction against being motivated by personal gain, which would hinder the development of pure devotion. According to Rāmānuja, the correct attitude is to recognize that all actions are meant to please the Lord, and the fruits of those actions are also within His control. This understanding fosters a deep sense of dependence on and love for Īśvara, facilitating the jīva's path to liberation through devotion (bhakti). The verse is thus a call to engage in selfless service, dedicated to the divine, as a means of realizing one's true nature as a servant of the Lord.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda): Swami Vivekānanda, in his lectures and writings, often emphasized the practical and universal application of this verse. He saw 'karmaṇyevādhikāraḥ' as a call to action, urging individuals to take responsibility for their deeds without being motivated by personal gain or fear of consequences. This approach, Vivekānanda argued, leads to a sense of freedom and empowerment, as one is no longer bound by the expectations of outcomes. In his speech 'Karma-Yoga' (delivered in the United States), Vivekānanda cited this verse as a foundational principle for selfless work, advocating for individuals to perform their duties without attachment, thus finding inner peace and contributing to the greater good. He connected this idea to contemporary life, suggesting that the performance of duty without desire for reward is essential for personal growth, social harmony, and global progress. By focusing on the process rather than the product, individuals can cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment, reflecting the universal and timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gītā.

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