IIT Mandi Celebrates Gita Jayanti with ‘Gitanushilanam 2024’

Mandi, December 14, 2024; IIT Mandi hosted ‘Gitanushilanam 2024’ on the auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti, commemorating the advent of the Bhagavad Gita, a timeless scripture that has inspired humanity for millennia. Organized by the IKSMHA Center (Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications), this celebration aimed to highlight the relevance of the Gita in addressing contemporary challenges and fostering moral, cultural, and spiritual well-being.

The event embodied the spirit of ‘Gitanushilanam,’ derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Gita’ (Bhagavad Gita) and ‘Anushilanam’ (contemplation and practice). It emphasized integrating the Gita’s teachings into daily life by promoting adherence to Dharma, following the principles of Bhakti Yoga, and embracing the path of surrender to Lord Krishna as the ultimate means to attain harmony, purpose, and liberation.

The IKSMHA Center, dedicated to leveraging Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) for mental health and self-development, views the Gita as a beacon for cultivating resilience, emotional stability, and ethical leadership. By celebrating Gita Jayanti, the center aims to encourage a positive mindset and deeper connection to universal values rooted in Indian wisdom.

The program began with a soulful recitation of Chapter 15 of the Bhagavad Gita, followed by a lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance through the light of knowledge. Performances included the Gita Mahatmya recitation, celebrating the scripture’s unparalleled spiritual significance, along with melodious renditions, cultural dances, and yoga performances that creatively depicted the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The event also featured a shadow drama, bringing the Gita’s philosophical essence to life through an interplay of light and darkness. The program also showcased a video presentation of Gitanushilanam 2024, highlighting how thousands of children participated enthusiastically in Bhagavad Gita-based contests over the past few weeks, showcasing their creativity and understanding of the Gita’s teachings.

IPS Soumya Sambasivan, the Chief Guest, lauded the initiative and its focus on blending culture with education. She remarked, “The Bhagavad Gita is a profound guide for mental well-being and self-discovery. Teachers play a pivotal role in inspiring students to shift their focus from life-threatening addictions to life-affirming principles of Krishna Consciousness. By sowing the seeds of Bhakti, they uphold moral and human values while imparting the essence of Dharma.”

She further highlighted the Gita’s enduring relevance, quoting its assurance in 9.31, ‘na me bhakta pranashyati’ (My devotee is never lost) and its ultimate teaching in 18.66, ‘sarva dharman parityajya,’ which emphasizes liberation through surrender. Drawing attention to the strength of women, she noted, “In Vibhuti Yoga (chapter 10), the Bhagavad Gita celebrates women as embodiments of divine energy, capable of transforming society through their adherence to Dharma.”

The celebration engaged over 2,000 schoolchildren from across the Mandi district in contests like the Bhagavad Gita Quiz, Shloka Recitation, Essay Writing, and Art Competition, with 700 students participating in today’s event. The following schools participated in the festivities: Mind Tree School, GSSS Baggi, Swami Vivekananda School, Boys School GSSS, Primary School, Girls School GSSS, SVM, KV School, DAV Khaliyar, ITI, Takshila School, Hillock School, DAV NerChowk, GSSS Kataula, GSSS Kamand, GSSS Kathindi, USV School, GSSS Tihri, GSSS Nissu, Genius School, and Indus Global School.

The day concluded with a heartfelt awards ceremony, recognizing the outstanding talent of young participants, and reflecting on the enduring relevance of Gita’s teachings in modern times.