In a remarkable display of spiritual unity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined more than one lakh devotees for a mass recitation of the Bhagavad Gita in Udupi on November 28, 2025. The historic event, known as Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana, brought together people from all walks of life in a powerful collective reading of the sacred text.
A Gathering of Spiritual Significance
The Laksha Geeta Pathana ceremony witnessed an unprecedented gathering of over 100,000 participants, including students, monks, scholars, and ordinary citizens. Prime Minister Modi participated directly in the recitation, reading verses alongside prominent religious and political figures. Among the distinguished participants were Paryaya Puthige Math seer Sugunendra Thirtha and Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, who joined the Prime Minister in this spiritual endeavor.
The event took place at the historic Kanaka Mantap, where PM Modi paid floral tributes to the revered 14th-15th century saint-philosopher Kanakadasa. This tribute held special significance given Kanakadasa's legendary connection to the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, where according to tradition, Lord Krishna's idol miraculously turned westward to grant the saint darshan.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Unity
The mass recitation event served as a powerful demonstration of India's living spiritual traditions and cultural continuity. The participation of such a diverse cross-section of society – from young students to elderly scholars – highlighted the timeless relevance of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings in contemporary life.
The choice of Udupi as the venue added deep historical and cultural resonance to the event. As one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Karnataka, Udupi's Sri Krishna Temple has been a center of spiritual learning and devotion for centuries. The combination of modern political leadership with ancient spiritual practices created a unique moment of national significance.
A Message of Collective Spirituality
The Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana represented more than just a religious gathering; it symbolized the power of collective spiritual practice in bringing communities together. The synchronized recitation of sacred texts by such a massive gathering created an atmosphere of profound devotion and unity.
This event underscores the continuing importance of India's spiritual heritage in public life and demonstrates how ancient traditions can find meaningful expression in modern contexts. The participation of the Prime Minister in such events highlights the government's recognition of India's rich cultural and spiritual legacy as an integral part of the nation's identity.
The successful organization of an event of this scale, bringing together over one lakh people for a synchronized spiritual practice, stands as a testament to both the enduring appeal of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings and the organizational capabilities of modern India.
