Haryana CM Nayab Singh Leads Grand Geeta Jayanti Celebrations in Kurukshetra
KURUKSHETRA : Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh presided over the grand closing ceremony of the Geeta Jayanti festival on December 11, 2024, in the sacred city of Kurukshetra. This year’s celebrations culminated in a spectacular festival of lights at the holy Sannihit Sarovar and Brahmasarovar, where thousands of devotees gathered to honor the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
This vibrant festival not only celebrated the spiritual heritage of Kurukshetra but also emphasized the importance of the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings in contemporary life.
A Grand Display of Devotion
The closing ceremony witnessed a massive turnout of devotees who participated in the lighting of diyas around the Sarovars, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge and righteousness. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh, accompanied by Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, Gita scholar Gyananand Ji Maharaj, and other prominent saints and intellectuals, led the Maha Aarti and puja rituals.
Addressing the gathering, CM Nayab Singh remarked, “Geeta Jayanti is not just a festival; it is a celebration of the eternal wisdom that guides humanity. Through this festival, we are reminded of our rich spiritual heritage and the values that define our society. It is heartening to see thousands come together to celebrate this sacred occasion.”
Key Highlights
- Lamp Lighting Ceremony:
Thousands of lamps were lit around Brahmasarovar, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. The serene glow of the lamps reflected the collective devotion of the attendees. - Maha Aarti:
The evening Maha Aarti, performed under the guidance of Gyananand Ji Maharaj, was a deeply spiritual experience. Devotees offered prayers for the prosperity of the state and the nation. - Cultural Programs:
The festival featured cultural performances inspired by the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, showcasing Haryana’s rich traditions and spirituality.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Kurukshetra, known as the land of the Bhagavad Gita, holds immense spiritual importance in India. The Geeta Jayanti festival commemorates the day when Lord Krishna imparted the timeless wisdom of the Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
This annual celebration has become a hallmark of Haryana’s cultural calendar, drawing devotees, scholars, and tourists from across the country and beyond. It serves as a platform to propagate the message of the Gita, emphasizing duty, righteousness, and devotion.
Leaders Speak
Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar expressed his pride in Haryana’s efforts to preserve and promote its spiritual legacy. “Kurukshetra is a beacon of India’s spiritual identity. The Geeta Jayanti celebrations showcase the essence of our heritage, and I commend everyone who contributed to making this event a success.”
Prominent Gita scholar Gyananand Ji Maharaj highlighted the teachings of the Gita, urging everyone to embrace its values in their daily lives. “The Bhagavad Gita teaches us to perform our duties selflessly. Events like these remind us to stay connected to our roots and inner strength.”
Community Participation
The festival’s success was marked by the enthusiastic participation of devotees from all walks of life. Families from Haryana and neighboring states arrived in Kurukshetra to take part in the rituals and festivities.
For many, the lamp-lighting ceremony was the most memorable moment, symbolizing unity, faith, and the light of knowledge dispelling the darkness of ignorance.
Broader Impact
The Geeta Jayanti festival is not just a religious celebration but also a cultural extravaganza that boosts tourism and fosters communal harmony. Events like these enhance Kurukshetra’s global appeal as a spiritual destination, attracting scholars, devotees, and travelers from across the world.
Haryana’s government has consistently supported initiatives that preserve the state’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Under CM Nayab Singh’s leadership, efforts are underway to further enhance infrastructure and facilities in Kurukshetra, ensuring it remains a hub for spiritual and cultural tourism.
A Night to Remember
As the festival drew to a close, the sight of thousands of lamps flickering in unison around Brahmasarovar left an indelible mark on the hearts of attendees. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the divine chants, created an aura of peace and spirituality that resonated with all present.
The Geeta Jayanti festival of 2024 will be remembered not only for its grandeur but also for its deep spiritual and cultural impact. It served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of the Bhagavad Gita and its teachings in today’s world.