Why Indians Rarely Celebrate Gita Jayanti: An Insight

The celebration of Gita Jayanti is a relatively uncommon event among the majority of Hindus in India, particularly those who did not actively seek to understand their religion or the spiritual teachings of Bhagavad Gita. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon and the significance of Bhagavad Gita in modern Indian society.

Understanding Hinduism Through Birth and Choice

A significant portion of the current Hindu population in India, around 90%, have adopted this religion by default, due to their birth in a Hindu family. For many, Hinduism is not a conscious choice but a result of their birth. Unfortunately, this lack of choice often leads to a lack of knowledge about the core teachings and principles of the religion, such as Hindu Dharma and Karma. Because of this, the knowledge and practice of important religious observances, like Gita Jayanti, are not widely known or practiced.

The Significance of Gita Jayanti

Gita Jayanti is an important celebration in the Hindu calendar for those who seek spiritual knowledge. It commemorates the day Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse excerpt from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, contains profound wisdom and guidance on righteousness, duty, and spiritual growth. This celebration is primarily observed by those who have had the opportunity to hear or read the Bhagavad Gita, either through a spiritual teacher or saint.

Lord Krishna's Teachings on Bhagavad Gita

During the critical battle, Lord Krishna imparted invaluable knowledge to Arjuna. According to the teachings in Bhagavad Gita, those who seek pure knowledge will understand righteousness. Krishna teaches that performing one's duty without attachment to outcomes, and sacrificing both good and bad experiences, is essential. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and the realization of the divine existence of the soul, which transcends the material world's illusions.

Why Gita Jayanti is Celebrated in Non-Traditional Ways

While Gita Jayanti is not commonly celebrated in large gatherings, many individuals still find ways to observe it in their homes. My personal experience has shown that people continue to honor this day through various means, such as chanting mantras, singing bhajans, and even distributing prasadam (holy offerings).

I visited every part of my city on Gita Jayanti and heard the chanting of mantras and bhajans in many households. In one shop, I even heard a sankirtan session (group singing of spiritual songs in honor of Lord Krishna). Throughout the day, I also heard loud music in a local deck, promoting Hare Krishna. I even received prasadam from a neighbor at one point.

The Widespread Ignorance of Bhagavad Gita

Despite its profound spiritual significance, only about 5% of the Indian population read, re-read, and at least partially apply the teachings of Bhagavad Gita in their lives. The majority of people are deeply engrossed in the materialistic world, which often overshadows their interest in spiritual growth and divine existence.

The Bhagavad Gita is a treasure trove of ancient wisdom that can eleviate one's life, yet many of its true adherents barely engage with it. It is truly a pity that a rich spiritual legacy is being ignored by its own countrymen. One can hardly expect people to celebrate Gita Jayanti if they are not even willing to read a few verses from Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. While some people acknowledge the existence of Bhagavad Gita and its Jayanti, they are reluctant to delve into its teachings.

Conclusion

The observance of Gita Jayanti highlights the gap between spiritual knowledge and its practical application among many Indians. Efforts to educate and engage the masses in spiritual practices such as reading and meditating on Bhagavad Gita can help bridge this gap and promote a more holistic understanding of one's faith.