Bhagavad Gita – Ancient History
This knowledge was first spoken to the Sun God (Vivasvan) by Lord Sri Krishna. And Sun God, Vivasvan explained it to Manu, and Manu explained it to Iksvaku.
And in this way, one after another this yoga was coming in disciplic succession. But in due course of time, this knowledge was lost.
Gita Jayanti – Why it is Celebrated?
Gita Jayanthi – On this holy day sacred Hindu text Bhagavad Gita was again spoken to Arjuna by Lord Krishna.
It is celebrated in the Margashirsh (Margashira/Margazhi) month of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated on the Shukla Ekadashi.
The Bhagavad Gita was told by Shri Krishna to Arjuna just before the start of the battle of Kurushektra. The same was narrated by Sanjaya to King Dhritarashtra (father of Kauravas).
Sanjaya was given a boon by his Guru Ved Vyasa due to which Sanjaya could view the events on the battlefield remotely.
When the battle of Kurukshetra was just about to begin Arjuna’s heart melted on seeing his loved ones on the other side of the battlefield.
He told Lord Krishna that he will not be able to raise weapons against his own near and dear ones. That is when he turned to Lord Krishna who was playing the role of Arjuna’s charioteer for advice.
Hence Bhagavad-gita was spoken to Arjuna because he was a friend & devotee of the Lord.
Gita Jayanthi 2024 Date
In 2024, Gita Jayanti is on Wednesday, 11th December. Mokshada Ekadashi Tithi begins at 03:48 AM on 11th December and ends at 01:09 AM on 12th December.
This year is 5160th anniversary of Bhagavad Gita.
- In 2025, Gita Jayanti is celebrated on Monday, December 1st.
The Celebrations of Gita Jayanti
Gita Jayanthi is celebrated by devotees of Lord Krishna (Vaishnavas). Vaishnavas are the followers of the Sanatana Dharma & consider the Bhagavat Geeta as the topmost literature.
This holy book helps us to re-establish our relationship with the Almighty. On this day devotees observe the Ekadashi fast.
Mass recitation of the 700 verses of Bhagavad Gita is chanted all through the day by the devotees in the temples. Holy forums are held by yogis and spiritual gurus.
The Bhagavad Gita arti is also recited and it tells about the glory and importance of this very important holy book.
In many places, there are competitions for children where kids are encouraged to recite the Geetha. Plays are also enacted which tell the children importance, of this holy book.
The main intention of all these things is to encourage the children to understand the holy Geetha in detail.
Gita Jayanti is a day to understand the essence of the Bhagavad Gita. It is a time to recite the scriptures and move a step closer to the Lord.
The followers of Lord Krishna consider this day to be one of the most auspicious days of the year. This day is like a big festival for these devotees.
Bhagvat Gita has always been one of the most important holy books of the Hindus and so naturally Geetha Jayanti also has special significance to the Hindus.