Geeta Aaharan: The Interplay of the Gunas

April 20, 2026

K SIVA PRASAD
Retired senior IAS officer in
the Punjab Government.

Lord Krishna states: “In reality, all actions are performed in every respect by the *gunas* (modes) of Nature; yet, the ignorant person—whose inner consciousness is deluded by ego—believes, ‘I am the doer’” (3.27). “The wise person, who understands the truth regarding the distinction of the *gunas* and the distinction of actions, realizes that ‘the *gunas* are merely interacting with the *gunas*,’ and thus does not become attached to them” (3.28).

The fundamental teaching of the *Gita* is that there is no single “doer” behind any action; rather, every action is the result of the interplay between the *gunas*. The three *gunas*—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas—exist within each of us in varying proportions. The Sattva *guna* represents an inclination toward knowledge; the Rajas *guna* signifies an attachment to action; and the Tamas *guna* leads toward lethargy.

It is worth noting that no *guna* is inherently superior or inferior to another; they are simply modes of nature. For instance, if a person is under the influence of the Rajas *guna*, they will be intensely driven toward activity and will be unable to sleep. Conversely, the Tamas *guna* is required in order to sleep.

Secondly, we need to become aware of whichever *guna* is currently dominating us. For example, under the influence of Tamas, a person becomes lethargic and sits on the sofa watching television. On the other hand, if their spouse happens to be under the influence of Rajas, they might wish to go out—perhaps to go shopping, watch a movie, or meet friends. The outcome of such a situation is the direct result of the interplay between the Tamas and Rajas *gunas*. Similar situations, driven by the interplay of these *gunas*, frequently arise in the workplace as well.

Lord Krishna suggests that we should transcend the *gunas* and attain the state of *Gunatita* (14.22–14.26)—a state in which we remain fully aware of the *gunas* currently dominating us, yet exist merely as a witness to their interplay within the material world.
(To be continued)