Kurukshetra hosts 10th International Gita Festival – Events, History & Key Attractions

Celebrating heritage and global unity, Kurukshetra Hosts 10th International Gita Festival with seminars, cultural shows, exhibitions, and international delegates from around the world.

Kurukshetra Hosts 10th International Gita Festival

The 10th International Gita Festival has officially begun in Kurukshetra, launching a three-week spiritual and cultural celebration. This annual festival attracts devotees, scholars, and tourists from across India and around the world, showcasing the universal respect for the Bhagavad Gita and the historical importance of Kurukshetra.

Event Timings and Major Attractions

The festival runs from 15 November to 5 December, featuring a wide range of cultural, spiritual, and educational activities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend on 25 November. This year, Madhya Pradesh is a key partner: it’s presenting its rich cultural heritage through its own pavilion, craft stalls, and food exhibits.

Rising International Recognition

Since its launch in 2016, the International Gita Mahotsav has grown every year, with related celebrations now being organised in countries like Mauritius, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Japan. This year, the festival will see participation from 51 nations.

A three-day International Gita Seminar will begin on 24 November at Kurukshetra University, where 25 scholars from 16 countries will deliver presentations. Priests from Fiji and Trinidad and Tobago will take part in religious events, while artisans from seven countries will display and promote their traditional crafts.

Traditional Events and Devotional Ceremonies

From 24 November to 1 December, grand cultural events inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, Mahabharata, and the life of Lord Krishna will be hosted at Purushottampura Bagh. On 1 December, a Gita Shobha Yatra will be held along with a large-scale Deepotsav, where 182 pilgrimage sites across Kurukshetra will be illuminated.

Various student competitions – including shloka recitation, essay writing, painting, and rangoli – are planned for 28 to 30 November. During the same days, a Gita Book Fair at Brahma Sarovar will welcome renowned publishers from across the country.

Some Important Facts

1. The International Gita Festival is scheduled from 15 November to 5 December.
2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the event on 25 November.
3. A total of 51 countries will take part in this year’s celebration.
4. Madhya Pradesh has been selected as the partner state for the 2025 edition of the festival.

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Protective Measures and Organising Efforts

In light of recent security concerns in the region, law-enforcement agencies have increased surveillance and alertness at all festival locations. Officials are working together to manage crowds, regulate traffic, and oversee event logistics to ensure smooth and safe proceedings. With participants from several countries and a packed lineup of cultural and academic events, the festival is expected to witness a large number of visitors throughout its duration.

Role of Kurukshetra in Gita Heritage

Kurukshetra is regarded as the sacred land where Lord Krishna delivered the divine teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. The festival aims to remind people of this profound spiritual legacy and inspire them to explore its message of duty, righteousness, and selfless action. By hosting the event annually, Kurukshetra strengthens its identity as a global centre of Gita philosophy and cultural tourism.

Boost to Tourism, Economy and Local Handicrafts

The International Gita Festival provides a major economic boost to the region by promoting tourism, hospitality services, and traditional handicrafts. Large crowds visiting the venues offer artisans, handloom makers, and small-scale entrepreneurs valuable opportunities to showcase and sell their work.

Cultural exhibitions, food courts, guided tours, and heritage walks also contribute to higher footfall, enhancing Kurukshetra’s reputation as a vibrant spiritual travel destination.

Promoting Peace, Harmony and Global Brotherhood

One of the festival’s key objectives is to convey the universal teachings of peace, harmony, and moral living found in the Bhagavad Gita. With international participation, scholarly discussions, and cross-cultural exchanges, the event encourages unity beyond borders. Visitors gain exposure to diverse traditions while reflecting on the Gita’s message of inner balance, human values, and responsible living, promoting spiritual awareness worldwide.

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