Gita Jayanti
गीता जयंती
The day Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Readings, discussions, and recitations of the Gita are held in temples and homes.
Why We Celebrate
Gita Jayanti marks the sacred day when Lord Krishna revealed the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, approximately 5,000 years ago. The great warrior Arjuna, standing between two massive armies, was overcome with grief and confusion — the enemies he was about to fight were his own cousins, teachers, and elders. He dropped his bow and refused to fight.
In that moment of crisis, Krishna — who was serving as Arjuna's charioteer — delivered 700 verses of divine wisdom. He explained the nature of the soul (Atman), the paths of action (Karma Yoga), devotion (Bhakti Yoga), and knowledge (Jnana Yoga). He revealed his cosmic form (Vishvarupa) and taught that the soul is eternal, action performed without attachment leads to liberation, and one should fulfill their duty (dharma) without fear.
The Bhagavad Gita has become one of the most influential philosophical texts in world history, studied by scientists, leaders, and seekers of all backgrounds. On Gita Jayanti, devotees recite the Gita, attend lectures and discussions, and reflect on its timeless teachings. The festival falls on Mokshada Ekadashi, adding the power of Ekadashi fasting to the spiritual significance.
Did You Know?
- ✦The Bhagavad Gita's 700 verses were spoken in about 45 minutes on the battlefield — yet they contain the essence of all Vedantic philosophy, covering duty, devotion, meditation, and the nature of reality.
- ✦Robert Oppenheimer, the father of the atomic bomb, quoted the Gita ("Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds") upon witnessing the first nuclear test — the text has influenced thinkers from Einstein to Gandhi.
- ✦In Indian courts, witnesses can choose to take their oath on the Bhagavad Gita — it holds the same legal status as the Bible or Quran for oath-taking purposes.
Related Festivals
Never miss Gita Jayanti again. Aaradhana sends you reminders, preparation guides, and everything you need — starting 7 days before.
Download Aaradhana