In Indian psychology, emotions are seen as complex, multidimensional experiences that

involve both mind and consciousness, deeply tied to one's spiritual state and ethical values.
Rather than being merely reactions to external events, emotions are considered reflections of
an individual’s inner state and mental conditioning. Emotions in Indian psychology are
understood through both philosophical frameworks and psychological perspectives, often
connected with practices aimed at emotional regulation and self-realization.
Here are some key aspects of emotions in Indian psychology:
Rasa Theory (Navarasas)
The Rasa Theory, originally from classical Indian aesthetics and literature, describes nine
primary emotions or "rasas": Sringara (love), Hasya (laughter), Karuna (compassion), Raudra
(anger), Veera (courage), Bhayanaka (fear), Bibhatsa (disgust), Adbhuta (wonder), and Shanta
(peace). These emotions, which are fundamental to human experience, are often expressed in
art, drama, and literature to evoke empathy, reflection, and emotional balance.
While these emotions are experienced universally, Indian psychology emphasizes cultivating
Shanta (peace) as the ideal, encouraging emotional regulation and inner calm.
The Role of the Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas)
Indian psychology views emotions through the lens of the gunas — Sattva (balance, clarity),
Rajas (activity, restlessness), and Tamas (inertia, darkness). Sattvic emotions are seen as
positive and uplifting, such as compassion and contentment. Rajasic emotions, like ambition
or excitement, are more ego-driven and active, while Tamasic emotions, such as anger or
apathy, are often considered destabilizing.
The goal in Indian psychology is to cultivate sattvic emotions, as they promote peace and self-
awareness, and reduce rajasic and tamasic emotions, which can lead to instability and
suffering.
Attachment (Raga) and Aversion (Dvesha)
Raga (attachment) and Dvesha (aversion) are two emotional forces that are seen as
fundamental sources of psychological disturbance in Indian thought. Both are considered
products of ego- based desire and contribute to mental suffering and emotional imbalance.
Practicing Vairagya (detachment) is encouraged to manage these emotions and develop a
balanced, peaceful mind.
Emotions and Karma
Emotions are also understood in the context of karma — the law of action and its
consequences. According to Indian psychology, our emotions are shaped by past actions and
mental impressions, known as samskaras. These impressions influence our emotional
responses to situations and people, often leading to recurring emotional patterns. Through self-
awareness and mindfulness, individuals can work to overcome negative karmic patterns and
cultivate positive emotional states.
Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation (Chitta Vritti Nirodha)
In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, emotional regulation is seen as essential for mental peace and self-
realization. The practice of Chitta Vritti Nirodha, which means “stilling the fluctuations of the
mind,” is recommended to achieve emotional balance. Techniques such as meditation and
pranayama (breath control) help calm the mind, allowing one to observe and transcend
emotions rather than being controlled by them.
Bhakti (Devotion) as a Transformational Emotion
In Indian psychology, Bhakti (devotion) is a powerful, transformative emotion. It involves
deep love and surrender to the divine, leading to the dissolution of ego-based emotions and
fostering a sense of oneness with the universe. Bhakti is considered a path to emotional
purification, where love becomes selfless and transcendent, reducing negative emotions like
anger, jealousy, and fear.
Compassion (Karuna) and Altruism
Karuna (compassion) is an emotion highly valued in Indian psychology. It is regarded as
essential for personal growth and ethical living. Practicing compassion and empathy toward
others is seen as a way to reduce ego-based emotions and increase one’s sense of
interconnectedness with others, fostering emotional harmony and social well-being.
Self-Realization and Emotional Transcendence
Indian psychology views emotions as part of the journey toward self-realization. Negative
emotions like anger, fear, and jealousy are considered obstacles to spiritual growth, while
positive emotions like love, compassion, and peace are stepping stones. Through practices like
yoga and meditation, individuals aim to transcend ego-driven emotions and realize their true
nature (Ātman), leading to a state of emotional freedom and equanimity.
Shanta (Inner Peace) as the Ideal Emotion
The state of Shanta (inner peace or tranquility) is considered the highest emotional state,
reflecting harmony and unity with the self and the universe. Shanta represents a calm,
balanced mind free from emotional disturbances, embodying a stable foundation for self-
realization. Indian psychology views Shanta not as the absence of emotions but as a state
where emotions are integrated and harmonized.
Transformative Practices for Emotional Growth
Indian psychology provides numerous practices, including meditation, pranayama (breathing
exercises), mindfulness, and self-inquiry (Atma Vichara), which help individuals understand,
regulate, and transform their emotions. The goal is to achieve mastery over emotions rather
than suppression, allowing emotions to arise naturally but without attachment, ultimately
fostering inner peace and emotional freedom.
In summary, Indian psychology treats emotions as interconnected with spiritual, ethical, and
mental aspects of life. Emotions are not only viewed as psychological responses but also as
elements of one’s spiritual path, where emotional regulation and transformation are
encouraged as part of the journey to self-realization, harmony, and inner peace. This
perspective sees emotions as potential sources of growth, aiming to transform negative
emotional patterns into balanced, positive, and ultimately self-transcendent states