Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh)— Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday described the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha as a transformative spiritual journey that awakens the soul, offers moral direction, and fosters harmony across society, calling the sacred scripture the true heart of Indian culture.
Addressing a large gathering of devotees during a recital at Panjola in Patiala district, Punjab, the Chief Minister observed that the epic encapsulates the profound truths of life by balancing action, devotion, wisdom, and detachment through the divine deeds of Lord Krishna. Prominent narrator Sitapal Shastri alongside venerable saints and spiritual figures attended the religious gathering.
Tracing the spiritual heritage of the discourse, Saini recounted the sacred setting on the banks of the Ganges where sage Shukadeva narrated the epic to King Parikshit. Despite facing the curse of imminent death from Takshaka the serpent within seven days, the king overcame fear through spiritual immersion, establishing the enduring Indian tradition of observing week-long recitations.
Emphasizing the relevance of scriptural values in contemporary life, the Chief Minister noted that spiritual discourses harmonize material aspirations with moral foundations. He called on the younger generation to stay vigilant against substance abuse and actively protect their peers from falling victim to drugs. Stressing that addiction harms physical well-being, families, and society, Saini urged youths to channel their energy into academics, athletics, vocational skills, community service, and nation-building initiatives.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to propagating the teachings of spiritual masters, Saini highlighted the state’s dedicated initiative to celebrate the anniversaries of revered sages at the official level. He noted that the annual International Gita Mahotsav organized in Kurukshetra has elevated the eternal message of the Bhagavad Gita onto the global stage under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Encouraging widespread public engagement with India’s ancient ethos, the Chief Minister urged families to visit the Jyotisar Experience Centre in Kurukshetra to experience the vivid chronicle of the Mahabharata and immerse themselves in the timeless philosophy of the Gita
