MDNIY hosts National Seminar on ‘The Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita’

National Seminar on ‘The Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita’

Dec 15, 2024, New Delhi. In celebration of Gita Jayanti, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) organised a National Seminar on 'The Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita', bringing together esteemed scholars and experts to delve into the timeless wisdom of this revered text.

MDNIY organised a National Seminar on The Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita on the auspicious occasion of Gita Jayanti. The seminar was presided over by Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY. The event was graced by the auspicious presence of Prof B. R. Sharma, Former Vice-Chancellor, Sri Sri University, Cuttack, Odisha, as the Chief Guest and eminent speakers such as Prof Krishna Kanta Sharma, Former Professor, Faculty of SVDV, BHU, Varanasi; Prof Ramnath Jha, SSIS, JNU, New Delhi; Prof Madhusudan Penna, Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, Ramtek, Maharashtra; Dr Laxmi Narayan Pandey, Former Acharya, RSC Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh; and Shri S. Sridharan, Senior Mentor and Yoga Therapist, KYM, Chennai.

National Seminar on ‘The Yoga of the Bhagavad-Gita’

Professor B. R. Sharma, Former Vice-Chancellor of Sri Sri University, observed, “While we cannot undo our past actions (karmas), we can modify their consequences. This is where the harmonious integration of Gyana (knowledge), Karma (action), and Bhakti (devotion) becomes essential. Kriya yoga, in particular, embodies this synthesis. Although these paths may appear distinct, they ultimately converge towards a common goal. Individuals should choose the path that resonates with their interests and capacities.”

Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director of MDNIY, remarked: "The Bhagavad-Gita remains profoundly relevant in today's context, embodying the essence of Brahmavidya and offering sage wisdom for modern-day challenges. Its teachings have become an integral part of various management courses, providing practical solutions and ethical guidance in today's dynamic world."

"Furthermore, the Gita emphasises the significance of Beeja Sanskara (pre-conception) and Garbha Sanskara (post-conception), particularly through the concept of Atmaja Bhava—a profound sense of connection with the unborn child. This practice nurtures wisdom and virtuous qualities in the foetus, laying the foundation for holistic development. The Bhagavad-Gita also highlights the importance of Satvika Ahara, a healthy diet that imparts nourishment to both consciousness and the physical health of mother and foetus during pregnancy. The Bhagavad-Gita's transformative potential is limitless, and its enduring wisdom continues to inspire and illuminate paths for generations to come." he stated

The Bhagavad-Gita remains profoundly relevant in today's context, embodying the essence of Brahmavidya and offering sage wisdom for modern-day challenges. Its teachings have become an integral part of various management courses, providing practical solutions and ethical guidance in today's dynamic world

Dr Laxmi Narayan Pandey, Former Acharya at RSC Bhopal, highlighted the significance of the Bhagavad-Gita, saying, 'Arjuna represents the common man, who, after receiving wisdom from Lord Krishna, resolves to initiate the Dharma Yuddha. This text leads us towards our duties, guiding us from the gross (Sthula) to subtle (Sukshma), while explaining the path to Moksha.'

Professor Ramnath Jha from JNU, New Delhi, noted that the Bhagavad-Gita's primary purpose is to establish dharma. Citing Swami Vivekananda, he stated, “Energy cannot be created or destroyed; hence, while the body is mortal, the soul is immortal. After attaining this knowledge, one should work for public welfare.”

These experts in their thought-provoking talks explored the profound teachings of the Bhagavad-Gita and its significance in the philosophy and practice of Yoga. 

The seminar witnessed enthusiastic participation from Yoga practitioners and enthusiasts, who gained valuable insights from the wisdom shared by the speakers.

The event was coordinated by Dr Arpit Kumar Dubey, Assistant Professor (Sanskrit).