Karma yoga is that yoga in which the person does not arrogate to himself the function of being the actor. The actions go on automatically.

Devotee:   The Gita seems to emphasise Karma. For Arjuna is persuaded to fight; Sri Krishna Himself set the example by an active life of great exploits.

Ramana Maharishi:   The Gita starts saying that you are not the body, that you are not therefore the karta.

Devotee:   What is the significance?

Ramana Maharishi:   That one should act without thinking that oneself is the actor. The actions go on despite his egolessness. The person has come into manifestation for a certain purpose. That purpose will be accomplished whether he considers himself the actor or not.

Devotee:   What is Karma yoga? Is it non-attachment to Karma or its fruit?

Ramana Maharishi:   Karma yoga is that yoga in which the person does not arrogate to himself the function of being the actor. The actions go on automatically.

Devotee:   Is it the non-attachment to the fruits of actions?

Ramana Maharishi:   The question arises only if there is the actor. It is being all along said that you should not consider yourself the actor.

Devotee:   So Karma yoga is kartrtva buddhi rahita karma - action without the sense of doership.

Ramana Maharishi:   Yes. Quite so.

Devotee:   The Gita teaches active life from beginning to end.

Ramana Maharishi:   Yes, the actor-less action.

Devotee:   Is it then necessary to leave the home and lead a life of renunciation?

Ramana Maharishi:   Is the home in you? Or are you in the home?

Devotee:   It is in my mind.

Ramana Maharishi:   Then what becomes of you when you leave the physical environment?

Devotee:   Now I see. Renunciation is only action without the sense of being the karta.