Gita Jayanthi

The birth of Bhagavad Gita, the sacred text of Hindus, is celebrated as Gita Jayanthi. Hindus around the world celebrate this day by reading and contemplating the knowledge given in Bhagavad Gita. It contains the message of life irrespective of race, creed, age or religion.

It falls on the 11th day of waxing moon (Sukla Ekadasi) in Margashirsha month (November- December months).

Origin of Gita Jayanthi

“Bhagavad Gita” was revealed to Arjuna by Lord Krishna Himself in the battlefield of Kurukshetra (Haryana, India). As in the epic Mahabaratha, Arjuna was unable to fight against his cousins, the Kauravas in the battle. He felt weak and sickened at the thought that he would have to kill his relatives, his friends and revered persons in this confrontation. He turned to Lord Krishna for advice. Lord Krishna enlightened Arjuna with the holy teaching of Bhagavad Gita. Through extraordinary divine dialogue Lord Krishna explained to Arjuna the meaning of Karma Yoga and how he can attain the purpose of life by performing his prescribed duty and following his Dharma (Righteousness). Bhagavad Gita was written in the sacred epic Mahabharata by the Sage Veda Vyasa. Bhagavad Gita contains 18 chapters and consists of 700 verses.

Significance of Gita Jayanthi

On Gita Jayanthi day devotees perform bhajans, recite Gita verses, and perform homam by reciting Gita verses and conduct discourses on Gita. Some also conduct Gita reciting competition for children. In some places like Kurukshetra, Madura etc. the celebrations are done for 18 days (because Gita contains 18 chapters). Many disciples sit in front of their Guru to cherish and remember Bhagavad Gita teachings. Some blessed ones get to learn this precious teachings form their Guru. It is best to not just learn the verses and recite rather really understand the meaning of them.

Spiritual Significance of Gita Jayanthi

Bhagavad Gita is considered as the most important and influential Hindu scripture for its philosophical, practical and spiritual value. Bhagavad Gita contains the essence of Vedic knowledge. It helps a human being to deal with day to day problems. Also teaches what is the meaning and purpose of life. The celebrations of Gita Jayanthi make people to understand Gita and respect the sacred book of knowledge. Reading and remembering sacred texts again and again will make human beings to understand it well. It is not possible to understand and practice the highest knowledge of Bhagavad Gita in one attempt. Lord Krishna uplifted Arjuna from his confused and dejected state of mind (Lower-self) into his Self-realized state (Higher-Self) through a step-by-step spiritual journey. It reminds us that we are the Arjuna here and we can also use Lord Krishna’s advice and apply it in our lives to uplift ourselves and others. Celebrating the birth of Bhagavad Gita is a way of showing gratitude to Lord Krishna for his valuable gift.