International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

The Temporal Aesthetics of Dharma: Modelling Inner Transformation from the Bhagavad Gita in Time-Based Digital and Kinetic Art

This research paper adopts an interdisciplinary approach to investigate the role of digital and kinetic art in representing the dynamic process of inner transformation and self-discovery as articulated in the Bhagavad Gita. Nishkama Karma or selfless, detached action is central to the investigation as a philosophical basis to understand how time-based and interactive art forms embed spiritual teachings about impermanence, ego transcendence, and continuous growth. The Bhagavad Gita's nuanced rendering of the evolution of the Self provides a fruitful theoretical framework within which to decode those contemporary artworks that unfold through movement, changing visuals, or participatory engagement. The study uses qualitative methodologies that include detailed textual analysis of key Gita passages, art historical contextualization, and case study evaluations of leading digital and kinetic artworks. This research also synthesizes artist statements and viewer response observations in order to assess the psychospiritual effect of engaging with these emerging art forms. The investigation uncovers how kinetic sculptures responding to environmental stimuli, generative digital paintings adapting to real-time data input, and interactive installations inviting audience participation-all function not only as metaphoric representations but as experiential sites that allow meditative reflection and detachment. In such a way, these artistic practices deeply resonate with the Gita's emphasis on action without attachment to fruits and the fluid nature of selfhood. Audience engagement studies show that immersive, dynamic artworks inspire high states of self-awareness, connectedness, and therapeutic responses consonant with spiritual transformation. Further, the incorporation of Indic philosophical frameworks into discourse about digital art challenges the dominant Western aesthetics and resituates art as an ethical and spiritual practice based upon self-inquiry and disciplined action. The paper further develops contemporary art theory by articulating the intersection of ancient spiritual wisdom and modern technological creativity. It highlights how digital and kinetic arts can serve as crucial sadhana-or disciplined spiritual practice-in contemporary times, which bridges cultural and temporal divides. The conclusions support future interdisciplinary studies to extend the empirical investigation into the transformative potential of such artworks and to further probe the inclusions of non-Western philosophies into the medium of digital art. This research therefore prepares new directions for understanding art, not just as static expression, but more so as dynamic, participatory self-realization in the digital era. Keywords Digital Art, Kinetic Art, Inner Transformation, Self-Discovery, Bhagavad Gita, Nishkama Karma