The International Gita Mahotsav 2024 is set to be celebrated in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from November 28 to December 15. The birthplace of the Bhagavad Gita will once again host this vibrant festival, combining spirituality, culture, and art. Chief Minister Nayab Saini shared details about the event, emphasising its significance and global reach.
This year, Tanzania will be the partner country, while Odisha has been chosen as the partner state. Tanzania's involvement underscores its strong cultural ties with India.
The Indian diaspora in Tanzania actively engages in religious and cultural activities, including recitations of the Ramayana and Bhagavad Gita. The presence of Hindu temples in Tanzania further strengthens this connection. The partnership highlights the mutual appreciation of heritage and culture between the two regions.
Odisha, known for its iconic pilgrimage sites such as Jagannath Puri, the Konark Sun Temple, and the Lingaraj and Mukteshwar Temples, will add its unique cultural flavour to the festival.
The Chief Minister noted that visitors will witness a glimpse of Odisha’s rich heritage at the Mahotsav, making it an inclusive celebration of India’s Sanatan culture.
Haryana and Tanzania share a longstanding relationship. Delegations from Haryana, including industrialists, farmers, and trade representatives, have visited Tanzania to foster collaboration.
Highlighting Tanzania as a gateway to Africa, the Chief Minister expressed hope that the event would deepen socio-economic ties between the two regions. Tanzanian ministers are also expected to participate in the Mahotsav, which will offer them insights into Haryana’s culture and traditions.
The International Gita Mahotsav has grown immensely in popularity since its inception in 2016. Millions of people from India and abroad participate each year, drawn by the festival’s spiritual and cultural essence. Last year, approximately 45 to 50 lakh people attended, and a similar turnout is anticipated this year.
The Mahotsav has also gone global in recent years, with celebrations held in Mauritius and London in 2019, Canada in 2022, Australia in 2023, and Sri Lanka and England in 2024. These international events reflect the universal appeal of the Bhagavad Gita and its teachings.