टीका

Commentary

This verse continues the description of one who has transcended the three modes. The key phrase is udaaseena-vad aaseenah — seated as if neutral, like an indifferent observer. This does not mean apathy or spiritual bypassing; rather, it describes a person who has found their center in the eternal self and no longer identifies with the temporary movements of the mind and body.

Such a person is not disturbed (na vichaalyate) by the modes. When the body feels energized or dull, when the mind races or stalls, when emotions surge or subside — the transcendent soul remains steady. This steadiness comes not from suppression but from understanding: gunaa vartante — “it is only the modes that are acting.” This knowledge, when deeply internalized, creates a natural dispassion.

The word na ingate (never wavers) is significant. The liberated soul does not oscillate between enthusiasm and despair based on the play of the modes. Their peace is not dependent on external conditions or even internal mental states. They are established (avatishthati) in their true identity as the eternal soul, a servant of the Supreme Lord.

This kind of stability is achieved through sustained practice of Krishna consciousness. When one’s consciousness is absorbed in the Lord’s service — hearing, chanting, and remembering — the modes may continue their play in the body and mind, but the soul remains untouched and unmoved, like a lotus leaf in water.