Celebrating the Gita Mahotsav 2024

The International Gita Mahotsav (IGM) 2024 unfolded in Kurukshetra, inaugurated by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini at the iconic Brahma Sarovar. Running from November 28 to December 15, 2024, this year’s festival proudly features Odisha as the partner state and Tanzania as the partner country.

Gita Mahotsav Inauguration Highlights

The inauguration began with the Chief Minister offering prayers to the Bhagavad Gita and performing a yajna near the idol of Lord Krishna’s chariot. The event was graced by eminent personalities, including Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Tanzanian Minister Tabia Maulid Mwita, who jointly unveiled Tanzania’s pavilion, celebrating its vibrant culture and cuisine.

Festival Highlights and Attractions

• Global Gita Recitation: Over 18,000 students will participate in a synchronized recitation of the Bhagavad Gita.
• Cultural Programs: Performances by artists from across India will showcase the nation’s diverse heritage.
• International Seminars: Thought-provoking discussions on the Gita’s universal teachings.
• Grand Aarti & Deepotsav: A magnificent aarti at Brahma Sarovar, followed by an enchanting Deepotsav.

Since its inception in 2016, the festival has witnessed remarkable growth. Last year, it drew 45-50 lakh visitors, and similar numbers are expected this year. The event will be live-streamed at renowned temples like Puri and Mathura for a wider audience.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Swami Gyananand Ji Maharaj emphasized the festival’s global acclaim and its role in spreading the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Rituals such as havans and yajnas remain central to the celebrations, attracting devotees from around the world.

Each evening, attendees can immerse themselves in a variety of spiritual and cultural activities, offering a rich and transformative experience. Former minister Subhash Sudha lauded the event for its profound cultural and religious importance, highlighting its mission to share India’s spiritual heritage on a global stage.

The International Gita Mahotsav 2024 is more than a festival—it is a celebration of unity, spirituality, and the enduring wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita.