Today, on the occasion of Gita Jayanti, we are enveloped in a divine energy that inspires us to walk the path of righteousness. For the first time, Madhya Pradesh is hosting a historic International Gita Mahotsav, and I extend my heartfelt wishes to everyone on this auspicious occasion.

It is our privilege that this festival, spanning from December 8 to 11, 2024, provides us with an opportunity to understand and imbibe the wisdom of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita in our daily lives. The festival aligns with the vision of blending heritage with development, focusing on promoting Sanatan traditions and their transformative social impact.

The objective of this International Gita Mahotsav is to enlighten citizens about the profound teachings of Lord Shri Krishna and the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. A highlight of this celebration is the historic attempt by Madhya Pradesh to set a world record for the collective recitation of the Gita. Additionally, a quiz competition centered on the Gita was organized in schools, witnessing the enthusiastic participation of lakhs of students.

Madhya Pradesh shares a profound connection with the Gita. Ujjain, where Lord Krishna received his education at the ashram of Maharshi Sandipani, remains a sacred landmark. Across the world, the Bhagavad Gita is celebrated as an unparalleled text of wisdom, with translations in almost every language and extensive academic research in universities.

Modern self-help books often reiterate principles already encapsulated in the Gita. As a cornerstone of Indian philosophy, the Gita guides individuals toward self-realization through righteous action and fosters a deeper understanding of dharma.

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gita Bhavan centers are being established in every urban area of Madhya Pradesh. These centers will serve as hubs for discussions on the teachings of the Gita, inspiring transformation in thought and behavior.

Additionally, the state government has initiated the development of Vrindavan Villages across all blocks. These villages will serve as models for blending ancient culture with modern practices such as organic farming and dairy production, embodying Lord Krishna's principles.

The Gita and Ramayana, as part of our national heritage, are now integrated into the educational curriculum as optional subjects. Madhya Pradesh's students are shaping their future with one hand holding the Bhagavad Gita and the other embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI). This synergy of tradition and technology marks a transformative era in education and personal growth.

To honor the legacy of Lord Krishna, the state is developing the Shri Krishna Pathey, connecting significant sites associated with his life in Madhya Pradesh, including Ujjain, Mahu (Janapav), where Lord Parashuram met Yogeshwar Krishna, and Dhar (Amjhera). These sites will be transformed into spiritual centers, showcasing Lord Krishna's teachings and the message of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita for future generations.

The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, born from the teachings of Lord Krishna to Arjuna during the Kurukshetra war over 5,000 years ago, continues to hold relevance even today.  Shrimad Bhagwad Gita possesses 700 shlokas, out or these 574 was recited by Lord Krishna to deliver the message for guiding our day to day life. Its principles have guided revolutionaries like Lokmanya Tilak, Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, and Rajguru during India's freedom struggle.

(The author is Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh)