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PERSPECTIVE
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Travel through Karma, Jnana,

and Bhakti Marg

By Dr. Nimit Chowdhary, Professor of Tourism
Faculty of Management Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

s I have always maintained, cleanliness and beauty of the beach for
any travel is, to some extent, themselves and others. The traveller might
transformative. Travel is an develop a deep appreciation for the beauty
Aopportunity to reflect. As and tranquillity of the beach setting. This
discussed in a previous article, whether could lead to more mindful conduct,
it is the Dvaita or Advaita perspective, creating a sense of connection and
the pursuit of truth and the search for a reverence for the natural surroundings.
deeper understanding of human existence This practice cultivates a state of devotion
are central themes in Indian philosophy. and gratitude on the way to Bhakti Marg.
These pursuits are often approached Individuals often have a natural
through different paths, known as inclination towards one path over others.
“margas” (means). The three primary Still, their experiences and journey
paths– Jnana Marg (path of knowledge/ context can lead to the integration of
wisdom), Karma Marg (path of action), multiple paths. Travel provides a unique
and Bhakti Marg (path of devotion) – are opportunity to engage with these
integral to the Indian philosophical and paths dynamically, depending on the
spiritual framework. These paths provide destinations visited, the interactions
different approaches to self-realisation and with local communities, and personal
a deeper connection with the divine or the experience manifested in a responsible reflections along the way. Combining
ultimate truth. travel. On a more superficial level, it these paths enriches the travel experience,
The Karma Marg is a philosophy can be a spiritual pilgrimage, where offering a holistic approach to the pursuit
rooted in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasising individuals embark on journeys to sacred of truth and deeper understanding.
selfless action and the idea of performing places, temples, and shrines. In a deep These are just a few examples of how
one’s duties without attachment sense, through these travels, individuals different schools of Indian philosophy
to the outcomes. This philosophy deepen their sense of devotion and offer unique perspectives on travel and
backs travelling with the intention connection to the creation of the divine its potential for personal transformation.
of experiencing and contributing while also experiencing a sense of unity Each philosophy provides a distinct lens
positively to the places and communities with fellow travellers in this journey called through which individuals can approach
visited. Individuals cultivate a sense of life. their journeys, fostering a deeper
selflessness and empathy. This approach Let us also be clear that these three connection with the world and a greater
to travel encourages a deeper connection paths are not mutually exclusive. In fact, understanding of their own inner selves.
with the destinations and the people individuals often employ a combination
encountered, leading to personal growth of these paths based on their personal ‘The views expressed in the column are of
and a broader perspective. inclinations, life circumstances, and the author, and may or may not be endorsed by
Jnana Marg is the path of knowledge the specific context of their journeys. A the publication.’
and wisdom. It encourages seekers to traveller’s journey to a beach destination
explore the nature of reality through can involve a combination of the three
contemplation and self-inquiry. Jnana paths. She might be curious about
Marg’s approach suggests that the act the local ecosystem, marine life, and Dr Nimit Chowdhary is a Professor at the
of journeying and encountering new environmental sustainability. She could Department of Tourism and Hospitality
environments can serve as a catalyst join guided tours or workshops focusing Management at Jamia Millia Islamia. He has
for self-reflection and the exploration of on marine biology, ocean conservation, more than 29 years of academic experience,
more profound truths. Travellers engage and the impact of tourism on coastal of which he has been a full professor for 16
in introspection while experiencing ecosystems. By seeking knowledge about years in India, China, and Mexico. In addition,
unfamiliar cultures, landscapes, and ways the local environment and the importance he was a visiting faculty at Gotland University
of life, leading to insights about the nature of preserving it, the traveller moves (Sweden), the University of Girona (Spain),
of existence and one’s own place in the through the Jnana Marg. IIM Sirmaur, IIQM, and EDII. He is a recipient
world. Subsequently, she could participate
We mentioned Bhakti Marg in the in beach clean-up activities organised by of many academic awards and recognitions.
previous issue, also. It is the path of local organisations or resorts to contribute He has authored 20 books and more than 200
devotion and love for the divine. Bhakti positively to the local community and academic papers and chapters. He has travelled
Marg encourages travellers to approach environment. By participating in these extensively to around 40 countries and almost all
their journeys with a heart full of love and efforts, she embodies Karma Marg, states within the country.
reverence, fostering a profound spiritual performing selfless actions to maintain the

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