Meaning of kartavya: Our ancient texts provide the conceptual clarity

Source– The post is based on the article “Meaning of kartavya: Our ancient texts provide the conceptual clarity” published in The Times of India on 10th September 2022.

Syllabus: GS4- Dimensions of ethics and contribution of moral thinkers

Relevance-About the concept of duty.

Context- The concept of kartavya or duty is in highlight after the renaming of Raj Path to Kartavya Path.

What is the definition of kartavya in ancient texts?

In Bhagavad Gita,  Krishna tells Arjuna that kartavya is following your dharma that is righteousness in conduct and following social order, working without expectations of reward, indifference to desires and possessions and it demands selfless service.

Is it possible to follow the kartavya path in modern times?

Human beings never progressed without renouncing ego and developing self-control in any age.

We should not think of powerful and influential personalities but we have to look at selfless work done by mothers and homemakers, artisan and scientists, doctors and teachers. They followed the kartavya path.

History does not note their individual contributions as it is biased understanding of past having top-down overview where every figure was selfish.

True satisfaction comes from doing one’s job well.