What Happened as the Gita Mahotsav Launched in Kurukshetra?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Gita Mahotsav is a celebration of the Bhagavad Gita.
- It is held annually in Kurukshetra, India.
- The festival promotes cultural heritage and spirituality.
- International recognition has been growing since its inception.
- The event includes traditional performances and recitations.
Kurukshetra, Nov 24 (NationPress) With the resounding echoes of Vedic mantras and the ceremonial blasts of conch shells, the International Gita Mahotsav kicked off on Monday with immense enthusiasm, celebrating the sacred Bhagavad Gita through solemn worship.
The festival was officially opened with a grand ceremony (mahapoojan) dedicated to the Gita, accompanied by the recitation of its verses, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The atmosphere surrounding Brahma Sarovar vibrated with divine energy as Gita verses resonated throughout the area.
Guests were warmly received at Purushottampura Bagh, located near Brahma Sarovar, amidst the backdrop of Vedic chants. Folk artists from various regions donned traditional attire, welcoming visitors to the revered land of Kurukshetra.
Earlier, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini greeted Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the event. Following the final oblation in the Gita Yajna, he paid homage to the holy Gita.
In his address to the citizens, he remarked, “In the sacred city of Kurukshetra, there exists a divine blend of spirituality, culture, knowledge, and art.”
Thanks to the initiatives by both the Central and state governments, Gita Jayanti has been granted the title of the International Gita Mahotsav.
He noted that the Saraswati River banks were historically significant as the birthplace of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas.
“Moreover, the magnificent capital of Emperor Harshavardhan, Thanesar, was also established here.”
Acknowledging Kurukshetra’s importance, Lord Krishna selected this land for the Mahabharata war and imparted the eternal wisdom of Karma Yoga to Arjuna, a message that still inspires humanity today.
State Cabinet Minister Anil Vij, Krishan Kumar Bedi, Gita scholar Swami Gyananand Maharaj, Lok Sabha MP Naveen Jindal, and former Minister Subhash Sudha participated in the concluding rites of the Gita Yajna and performed pooja.
Minister Vij emphasized that the Gita holds profound significance not just philosophically and spiritually, but also in everyday life.
“It serves as a remarkable example of knowledge and science, which is why the Gita resonates with both Indians and overseas audiences. Over the past nine years, the festival has achieved remarkable success and popularity.”
In 2019, the festival was celebrated in countries such as Mauritius, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Sri Lanka.