Gita Mahotsav

The Delivery of the Bhagavad Gita

(1) Aarti Thali, Prayer Plate India

International Gita Mahotsav, All Travel Story, kurukshetra

Gita Mahotsav is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great fervor and devotion in the Indian state of Haryana, particularly in the city of Kurukshetra. The festival commemorates the day when Lord Krishna delivered the sacred sermon of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, during the epic war of Mahabharata. Gita Mahotsav, thus, symbolizes the eternal message of the Gita, emphasizing righteousness, duty, and the moral and spiritual upliftment of humanity.

History

The origins of Gita Mahotsav trace back to the time of the Mahabharata. According to the epic, the Bhagavad Gita was revealed by Lord Krishna to Arjuna in the midst of the Kurukshetra war, when Arjuna was in a moral dilemma about fighting his own relatives. The teachings of the Gita encompass various aspects of life, duty, righteousness, and devotion, making it a revered scripture in Hinduism.

Celebration

Gita Mahotsav is celebrated over a period of several days, usually in the month of December, coinciding with the day of Gita Jayanti, which marks the birth of the Bhagavad Gita. The festival features a range of cultural, spiritual, and religious activities, including:

• Recitation of the Bhagavad Gita: Scholars and devotees recite verses from the Gita, discussing its teachings and significance.
• Yajnas and Pujas: Special yajnas (rituals) and pujas (worship) are conducted to honor Lord Krishna and the sacred teachings of the Gita.
• Exhibitions and Fairs: Exhibitions showcasing the themes of the Bhagavad Gita, along with fairs and stalls selling religious artifacts, books, and items related to Hindu culture.
• Seminars and Lectures: Intellectual discussions, seminars, and lectures by eminent scholars on the philosophical aspects of the Gita and its relevance in contemporary times.
• Cultural Programs: Performances of traditional dance, music, and drama depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and the teachings of the Gita.

Significance

Gita Mahotsav serves as a reminder of the profound spiritual and moral teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. It encourages individuals to reflect on their duties, actions, and the path of righteousness. The festival not only celebrates the historical and cultural heritage of India but also promotes the universal message of peace, harmony, and the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to the results.

Location

The main celebrations of Gita Mahotsav take place in Kurukshetra, believed to be the site where the Bhagavad Gita was delivered. The city becomes a hub of spiritual activity, attracting thousands of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists from across the globe. The Kurukshetra Development Board, along with the state government of Haryana, organizes various events, ensuring the grandeur of the festival.