Bhagavad Gita key part of India's cultural heritage: Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan

Chandigarh: On Thursday, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan addressed the ninth International Gita Conference at Kurukshetra University in Haryana. The theme of the conference, 'Balanced Nature-Pure Environment Based on Srimad Bhagavad Gita,' emphasised the Gita's teachings on environmental conservation. Governor Khan praised the Bhagavad Gita as a key part of India's cultural heritage, describing it as a scripture for the welfare of all humanity.

Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, who also serves as the Chancellor of Kurukshetra University, highlighted the Bhagavad Gita’s message of environmental preservation. According to Dattatreya, the Gita offers solutions to many of humanity's challenges, including the urgent need for environmental care.

Governor Dattatreya officially opened the conference by lighting a lamp and unveiling a souvenir. He also praised Kurukshetra University for its efforts in promoting both the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the rich cultural heritage of Haryana.

The Gita’s role in global conservation efforts

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan emphasized the Gita’s significance in global environmental conservation. He called for the message of the Gita to be shared worldwide, stating that it embodies the core principles of the Upanishads and Vedic texts, which reflect India's unity and integrity.

Swami Gyananand Maharaj, a noted scholar of the Bhagavad Gita, also spoke at the event. He reinforced the Gita's message of environmental protection, calling Kurukshetra -- the birthplace of these teachings -- a sacred land. Swami Gyananand stressed that the Gita offers solutions to life's problems through balance and harmony, which are key to safeguarding the environment.

Uttarakhand Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (retd) expressed pride in the efforts to preserve cultural values. He lauded the celebration of Haryana’s rich traditions and noted that visiting Kurukshetra was a spiritually fulfilling experience. He emphasized the importance of sharing these teachings with future generations.

International Gita Mahotsav: A celebration of knowledge

The 18-day International Gita Mahotsav, running from November 28 to December 15, offers visitors the chance to explore the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The event aims to guide individuals through life's challenges and crises, using the wisdom of the Gita. The main events are taking place from December 5 to December 11.

As part of the celebrations, Haryana Governor Dattatreya opened the Haryana Pavilion at Purushottampura Bagh, located on the banks of Brahmasarovar. The pavilion highlights the vibrant folk art and heritage of Haryana, offering a glimpse into the region's rich culture. Dattatreya praised Kurukshetra University for promoting Haryanvi culture on a global stage, while Kerala Governor Khan emphasized its role in educating youth about the region's ancient traditions.

Agency