How are Indian Missions Commemorating the International Gita Mahotsav?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- International Gita Mahotsav celebrated globally.
- Teaching of Bhagavad Gita remains relevant today.
- Events promote cultural heritage and values.
- Collaboration with local organizations enhances outreach.
- Encourages harmony and resilience in contemporary society.
Nairobi, Dec 1 (NationPress) Numerous Indian diplomatic missions across the globe recently observed the International Gita Mahotsav, highlighting the timeless significance and lasting wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita in today's world.
In Kenya, the Indian High Commission in Nairobi, in collaboration with the Hindu Council of Kenya, hosted an event that featured a video address from External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar commemorating the 10th International Gita Mahotsav.
Indian High Commissioner to Kenya, Adarsh Swaika, expressed gratitude to the Hindu Council for their collaboration and acknowledged the efforts of various associations and organizations in Kenya dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
The gathering emphasized the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, which remain significant in the present era.
As per the Indian High Commission in Nairobi, representatives and students from ISKCON, Chinmaya Mission, Bhakti Marga, and the Hindu Council of Kenya presented discourses on Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and performed shloka recitations.
The International Gita Mahotsav is currently ongoing in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from November 15 to December 5. This festival celebrates the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita—principles of duty, righteousness, and knowledge—on Ekadashi (the 11th lunar day) of Shukla Paksha (the bright fortnight) during the month of Margashirsha in the Indian calendar, commemorating the moment when Lord Krishna imparted these eternal teachings to Arjun on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
In the United States, the celebration coinciding with the ongoing International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra saw the Consulate General of India in Houston collaborating with Geeta Pariwar to celebrate Geeta Jayanti at the Vitthal Rukmini Mandir in Houston.
During this event, Indian Consul in Houston, Prashant Sona, reinforced that the teachings of the Gita serve not only as a spiritual guide but also as a vibrant cultural heritage of India that continues to foster harmony, responsibility, and resilience in modern society.
“At Vitthal Rukmini Mandir, group recitations and reflections on the Gita highlighted these timeless teachings—providing clarity in decision-making, maintaining balance amidst success and failure, and fostering compassion in action,” the Indian Consulate General in Houston shared on X on Monday.