International Gita Mahotsav 2024: Celebrating the Essence of Srimad Bhagavad Gita

The International Gita Mahotsav, also referred to as Bhagavad Gita Jayanti Samaroh, is an annual global celebration that commemorates the birth of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, a timeless scripture revered for its spiritual and philosophical wisdom. The event highlights the momentous occasion when Lord Krishna imparted divine knowledge to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, marking a pivotal moment in the epic Mahabharata, over 5152 years ago.

Organized by the Kurukshetra Development Board and Haryana Tourism, this vibrant festival has gained international acclaim since the Haryana government decided to mark Gita Jayanti as an International event in 2016. Over the years, it has become a significant cultural and spiritual event, drawing millions of visitors to Kurukshetra.

Why is Gita Mahotsav Celebrated?

The Bhagavad Gita, comprising 700 verses, is not only a sacred text but also a guide to living a life of purpose, morality, and spiritual insight. The Mahotsav underscores the teachings of the Gita, encouraging people to embrace its principles of dharma (righteousness), karma (duty), and jnana (knowledge) in their lives.

The festival aims to promote the universality of the Gita’s teachings, emphasizing its relevance in addressing modern challenges and inspiring humanity toward inner peace and harmony.

Gita Mahotsav 2024: Dates and Venue

In 2024, the International Gita Mahotsav will commence on November 28 and conclude on December 15, aligning with the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of the Margashirsha month (Hindu lunar calendar). This year, the grand event will take place in Kurukshetra, Haryana, a city steeped in history and spirituality.

The primary celebrations will occur at the Brahma Sarovar, a sacred site believed to be the location where Lord Krishna delivered the Gita to Arjuna.

Program Highlights

Crafts and Saras Fair

Date: November 28 – December 15, 2024
Venue: Brahma Sarovar
Renowned artisans and craftsmen from across India will showcase their creations, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.

Inaugural Ceremonies (December 5, 2024)

• Gita Yajna and Gita Pujan
  Time: 9:00 AM
  Venue: Purushottampura Baag, Brahma Sarovar
  Devotees will participate in sacred yajnas and pujans, invoking divine blessings.
• Inauguration of Pavilions
  Time: 11:15 AM
  Venue: Purushottampura Baag
  Pavilions representing Haryana, Partner State Odisha, and Partner Country Tanzania will be inaugurated, highlighting cultural and international collaborations.
• International Gita Seminar
  Time: 12:30 PM
  Venue: Srimad Bhagavadgita Sadan, Kurukshetra University
  Esteemed scholars will delve into the global impact and spiritual significance of the Gita.
• Bhajan Sandhya and Maha Aarti
  Time: 5:00 PM
  Venue: Purushottampura Baag, Brahma Sarovar
  Devotional music and grand aartis will create a serene atmosphere, resonating with the spirit of the Gita.
• Cultural Evening
  Time: 6:00 PM
  Venue: Purushottampura Baag, Brahma Sarovar
  Traditional dance and music performances will celebrate India’s cultural diversity.

Key Events: December 9–15, 2024

• Congregation of Saints (Sant Sammelan)
  Date: December 9, 2024
  Eminent saints will discuss the spiritual and societal relevance of the Gita.
• All India Devasthanam Conference
  Date: December 10, 2024
  Discussions will revolve around the management and preservation of sacred sites.
• Global Gita Chanting
  Date: December 11, 2024
  Venue: Theme Park
  Over 18,000 students will participate in a unified recitation of the Gita, symbolizing global unity.
• Gita Shobha Yatra
  Date: December 11, 2024
  Venue: Kurukshetra
  A grand procession will showcase cultural and spiritual elements, culminating in the Deepotsav.
• Deepotsav and Maha Aarti
  Date: December 11, 2024
  Thousands of lamps will illuminate the Brahma Sarovar and nearby sites, creating a magical spectacle.

Cultural and Educational Activities

• Gita Book Fair
  Venue: Brahma Sarovar
  The fair will feature a diverse collection of books on the Gita and Hindu philosophy.
• Competitions for Children
  Events such as Gita chanting, drama, and dance competitions will encourage young participants to explore the essence of the scripture.
• Exhibitions
  Pavilions will showcase cultural, historical, and artistic aspects of the participating states and countries.

The Global Appeal of Gita Mahotsav

The International Gita Mahotsav is not just a celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. With visitors from around the world, the festival fosters a sense of unity, bridging cultures and communities.

The inclusion of international partners like Tanzania underscores the festival’s growing global reach, highlighting the Gita’s universal message of peace and harmony.

Summary of the News