Gita Jayanti, the celebration of the birth of Srimad Bhagavad Gita, holds profound religious and spiritual significance in Hinduism. This sacred scripture, revered by millions, encapsulates the divine teachings bestowed upon Arjuna by Lord Krishna during the Mahabharata Yuddh in Kurukshetra. As we approach the 5160th birth anniversary of the Gita, Gita Jayanti 2023 is set to be observed on December 23rd.
Date and Time:
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: December 22, 2023, 08:16 AM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: December 23, 2023, 07:11 AM
Significance of Gita Jayanti:
Gita Jayanti is a day of great religious importance, particularly for devotees of Lord Krishna. Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as Srimad Bhagavad Gita, is revered as one of the most sacred scriptures in Hinduism. This scripture contains the essence of Gita Gyan, the profound knowledge imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjuna. The narrative was conveyed to King Dhritrashtra by Sanjay, who had the ability to witness the battle in Kurukshetra.
Celebration:
Devotees engage in various rituals to honor Gita Jayanti. Reciting the 700 verses of Srimad Bhagavad Gita is a common practice, as it imparts knowledge about Karma, Dharma, and leads individuals towards spiritual awakening. Bhajans, kirtans, and prayers to Lord Krishna fill the air, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
Many followers of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) take the initiative to distribute Bhagavad Gita books, encouraging people to delve into its teachings for a more meaningful and purposeful life.
Puja Rituals:
1. Early Morning Rituals: Devotees wake up early, taking a holy bath to purify themselves.
2. Puja Room Preparation: The puja room is meticulously cleaned, and an idol of Lord Krishna is placed for worship.
3. Diya and Garland Offering: A diya with desi ghee is lit, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness. Lord Krishna is adorned with a garland.
4. Sweets and Prayers: Devotees offer sweets and Tulsi Patra to the Lord, followed by the recitation of Bhagavad Gita Shlokas.
5. Temple Visits: Many people visit Lord Krishna Temples to seek blessings on this auspicious day.
Mantra:
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye..!!
As the rays of the sun illuminate the Ekadashi Tithi on December 23, 2023, Gita Jayanti serves as a reminder of the eternal wisdom encapsulated in the Bhagavad Gita. It beckons individuals to embark on a spiritual journey, seeking enlightenment and embracing the teachings that transcend the boundaries of time and space. Gita Jayanti is not merely a celebration; it is an invitation to delve into the depths of profound knowledge and lead a life aligned with the principles of righteousness and devotion.