prarabdha

Prarabdha karma is a concept in Hindu philosophy referring to the portion of a being’s past actions that has begun to bear fruit in the present life. It is commonly described as the part of sanchita (accumulated) karma that is ripe and active now, shaping one’s birth circumstances, lifespan, health, relationships, and experiences.

In traditional framework, human karma is categorized into three forms: sanchita, prarabdha, and agami (future) karma. Prarabdha is believed to be the karma that has begun to unfold in this life, while agami represents actions yet to be performed and sanchita remains as the reservoir of past actions not yet experienced. This view suggests that while prarabdha determines many external conditions, individuals can influence their experience through choices, attitudes, and spiritual practices that cultivate discernment, resilience, and inner transformation.

Different schools of Hindu thought offer varying emphases on prarabdha. In Advaita Vedanta, prarabdha is often understood within the framework of maya and the illusory sense of self, with ultimate reality unaffected by it, even as the body and mind experience it. Other traditions, including certain strands of Yoga and Vedanta, accept prarabdha as a real, active force to be faced and purified, ideally leading to greater detachment or spiritual growth. Across these views, moksha (liberation) is described as transcending the influence of all karmas, including prarabdha.