Governor Bandaru Dattatreya inaugurates International Gita Mahotsav 2024 in Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra came alive with spiritual and cultural vibrancy as Governor Bandaru Dattatreya officially inaugurated the International Gita Mahotsav (IGM)-2024 on Thursday. The event, held on the banks of the historic Brahma Sarovar, transformed the ancient land into a bustling hub of artistic expression and cultural celebration.

A Tapestry of Crafts and Traditions

The mahotsav showcased an impressive display of artistic talent, with over 650 stalls featuring craftsmen from more than 20 states. Approximately 400 artisans, including national and state awardees, converged to exhibit their exceptional skills and traditional crafts. The Governor personally visited the fairs, engaging with artisans and appreciating their remarkable work.

Timeless Wisdom of the Geeta 

In his inaugural address, Governor Dattatreya emphasized the eternal relevance of the Bhagavad Gita. "Thousands of years ago, Lord Krishna delivered the sermon of Gita to Arjuna on this very land," he noted, highlighting that the philosophical teachings remain as profound and applicable today as they were centuries ago. 

A Comprehensive Cultural Extravaganza

The Gita Mahotsav is not just a local event but an international celebration. The cultural program is set to unfold from December 5 to 11, featuring diverse events including:

• Sant Sammelan (Spiritual Congregation)
• Deepotsav (Festival of Lights)
• Gita Seminar
• Various cultural performances 

Developing Kurukshetra's Spiritual Legacy 

As the chairman of the Kurukshetra Development Board, Dattatreya highlighted ongoing efforts to document and preserve the region's spiritual heritage. The board has already documented 182 tirthas (holy sites) within the 48-Kos Kurukshetra land, with continued survey work in progress.

The event promises to attract lakhs of visitors from across India and abroad, offering a unique platform to explore ancient culture, support artisans, and experience the spiritual essence of Kurukshetra.