Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday held discussions with representatives of religious and social organisations in Kurukshetra to review preparations for the International Gita Mahotsav 2026.
The meeting was held at Gita Gyan Sansthanam in Kurukshetra and was attended by representatives of various organisations, who shared suggestions for the upcoming festival. Saini urged all stakeholders to work together to make the event grand, dignified and driven by public participation.
CM Saini Says Gita Offers Guidance In Difficult Times
Saini said the Bhagavad Gita should not be viewed only as a religious scripture but also as a source of guidance for dealing with challenges in life.
Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s views, the Chief Minister said Gandhi considered the Gita a source of guidance and comfort during difficult circumstances and struggles. He also referred to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s emphasis on Karma Yoga, particularly the importance of performing one’s duties with dedication.
Citing Sri Aurobindo, Saini said the Gita’s message encourages people to engage with life through action and spiritual awareness rather than turning away from their responsibilities.
The Chief Minister said the International Gita Mahotsav should help take this message to people across the country and abroad. He added that the activities organised during the festival should keep the teachings of the Gita at their centre so that visitors leave Kurukshetra with a deeper connection to its culture and spiritual heritage.
‘Clean Kurukshetra, Sacred Kurukshetra’ To Be Collective Mission
Saini called for a coordinated effort to keep Kurukshetra clean, attractive and well-managed during the festival.
He proposed making ‘Clean Kurukshetra, Sacred Kurukshetra’ a collective commitment and urged temples, ashrams, dharamshalas, markets and public spaces to pay special attention to cleanliness.
He also appealed for efforts towards maintaining a plastic-free environment.
With devotees and tourists expected from India and abroad, the Chief Minister urged residents and organisations to welcome visitors in keeping with the traditional spirit of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’.
Kurukshetra Crossroads To Get Mahabharata-Themed Makeover
The Chief Minister announced that major intersections across Kurukshetra would be developed around Mahabharata-era themes.
He said the initiative would help showcase the historical and cultural identity of Kurukshetra across the city. The broader aim, he added, was to create an environment in which the city reflects its association with the Bhagavad Gita and Lord Krishna.
Saini urged religious and social organisations to contribute to the preparations at their respective levels and share suggestions with the administration.
He said wider participation from citizens and organisations would be essential to giving the International Gita Mahotsav a truly public character.
Swami Gyananand Urges Institutions To Join Gita Mahotsav
Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj called upon religious and social organisations to participate in the International Gita Mahotsav with a spirit of harmony.
He said collective participation would enhance the significance of the pilgrimage destination and Kurukshetra’s cultural identity. He also urged organisations to work alongside the administration in cleanliness initiatives.
Swami Gyananand appealed to individuals and institutions to participate in the ‘18 Minutes In The Name Of Gita’ initiative.
He said awareness about the Gita would become meaningful only when its teachings are reflected in everyday conduct. He added that promoting the legacy of the Gita and incorporating its principles into daily life should remain an important part of the festival.
The meeting was attended by BJP state president Archana Gupta, former minister Subhash Sudha, Kurukshetra Development Board honorary secretary Upendra Singhal, Chief Minister’s OSD Bharat Bhushan Bharti, spiritual leaders, representatives of religious and social organisations and other dignitaries.
