Kurukshetra, Sep 24 Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday held a meeting with representatives of religious and social organisations of Kurukshetra to discuss preparations for the International Gita Mahotsav-2026.
Representatives of various organisations shared their suggestions and views with the chief minister regarding the organisation of the Mahotsav, which is generally held in the months of November-December each year Saini called upon all organisations to work together to make the Mahotsav grand, dignified and reflective of widespread public participation.
Saini said that the Gita is not merely a religious scripture, but a message that provides direction to life.
He said Mahatma Gandhi regarded the Gita as a source of guidance and solace during difficult circumstances and struggles in life.
Similarly, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak laid special emphasis on the Gita’s message of ‘Karma Yoga’ and inspired people to remain committed to their duties and continue performing their actions, he said, according to an official statement.
Referring to the views of Sri Aurobindo, the Chief Minister said that the message of the Gita is not about turning away from life, but about giving life a better direction through action and spiritual consciousness.
Saini said that efforts should be made through the International Gita Mahotsav to take this very message of the Gita to every section of society.
The message of the Gita should remain at the centre of every activity of the Mahotsav, and every person visiting Kurukshetra should return with the culture of Kurukshetra and the message of the Gita, he said.
Saini said that everyone must work together to ensure that the environment of Kurukshetra remains clean, beautiful and well-organised in keeping with the sanctity of the land of the Gita.
He called for making ‘Clean Kurukshetra, Sacred Kurukshetra’ a collective resolve.
Saini urged people to pay special attention to cleanliness at temples, ashrams, dharamshalas, markets and public places and to extend cooperation in creating a plastic-free environment.
He said that devotees and tourists coming from across the country and abroad should be welcomed in the spirit of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, so that every visitor feels a sense of belonging and respect in Kurukshetra.
He said that all major chowks of Kurukshetra would be developed on the Mahabharata-era theme. This would help showcase the historical and cultural identity of Kurukshetra in different parts of the city.
He said that the endeavour is to ensure that the entire city of Kurukshetra reflects the spirit of being the city of the Gita and Lord Krishna.
The chief minister called upon religious and social organisations to contribute to the preparations for the Mahotsav at their respective levels and share their suggestions with the administration.
He said that only with the participation of organisations and citizens can the Mahotsav be given the character of a broad-based public celebration.
On the occasion, noted Gita scholar Swami Gyananand Maharaj called upon all religious and social organisations to join the International Gita Mahotsav in a spirit of harmony.
He said that this would enhance the pride of the pilgrimage centre, Kurukshetra and all of us.
He said that along with the administration, all organisations should also come forward and contribute to the cleanliness campaign.
(PTI News)
