The historic Gujarat Vidyapith, an institution established by Mahatma Gandhi himself, is set to host a significant five-day celebration honoring Gita Jayanti from December 1 to 5, 2025. This annual event will transform the campus into a hub of spiritual discourse and philosophical exploration centered around the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Gandhi's Enduring Connection with the Gita
According to Professor Harshad Patel, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith, the celebrations will take place at the Morarji Desai Mandapam on campus. The institution has maintained the tradition of observing Gita Jayanti every year since its founding in 1920, keeping alive Gandhi's profound connection with the sacred text.
Professor Bimal Pal, Head of the Yoga Studies Department, emphasized the significance of the Gita in Gandhi's life. "In Gandhi's life, Shrimad Bhagavad Gita remained a vital source of strength," he noted. "He regarded the Gita not only as a spiritual text but also as a guide to duty, balance, inner strength, and steadiness of mind."
Comprehensive Five-Day Program Schedule
The celebration features an extensive lineup of lectures and discussions designed to make the Gita's wisdom accessible and relevant to contemporary life. The thematic sessions include:
- 'Gita's life philosophy—discipline, motivation, and success'
- 'Jnana Yoga—focus, confidence, and mental strength'
- 'Karma Yoga—goal-setting and time management'
- 'Bhakti Yoga—stress-free and positive living'
- Special sessions exploring the relationship between Gita and Mahatma Gandhi
The event will host distinguished speakers from various fields, including former bureaucrat Bhagyesh Jha, who currently serves as chairman of Gujarat Sahitya Academy, and Ashok Sharma, principal secretary to the Governor. Representatives from spiritual organizations like Chinmaya Mission and ISKCON will also contribute to the discourse.
Universal Message for Modern Society
Gita Jayanti commemorates the historic moment when Lord Krishna imparted the eternal wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Mahabharata. Vice Chancellor Harshad Patel highlighted that the observance goes beyond religious remembrance.
"The occasion is observed not merely as a religious remembrance but as a universal message of timeless ethical guidance," Patel explained. "The Gita continues to offer insights into stability, duty, self-discipline, and the essence of human values. The purpose of the celebration is to reconnect society, especially the younger generation, with these ideals and encourage thoughtful living and moral responsibility."
The five-day program promises to be a significant cultural and spiritual event in Ahmedabad, bringing together scholars, students, and spiritual seekers to explore the enduring relevance of the Gita's teachings in today's complex world.
