Gita Prabodhini Dialogue Program: Inspiring Youth Towards Self-Control and Harmonizing Desires

On December 11, 2024, the "Gita Prabodhini Dialogue Program" was organized at the Government Public Mandal Library in Kota to celebrate Gita Jayanti. The primary objective of the program was to disseminate the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to the masses and highlight the importance of self-control and the harmonious coordination of desires. The theme of the program was aptly titled, "Self-Control and the Harmonization of Desires."

The event's chief guest, HG Mayapurvasi Das Ji from the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), emphasized in his address, "The teachings of the Gita not only provide direction to our lives but also teach us the art of controlling our minds and desires. Self-control and the prudent harmonization of desires lead an individual toward true happiness." He elaborated on the necessity of applying each verse of the Gita in daily life and stressed that mastering the mind is the key to achieving peace and balance in life.

The program was presided over by Nalin Parashar Prabhu Ji, who delved deeply into the teachings of the Gita on self-control. In his speech, he said, "The Gita teaches us that mastering our desires is among life's highest goals. When we regulate our desires, we achieve balance and mental peace. By internalizing the teachings of the Gita, we can progress toward self-realization."

Special guest Murali Prabhu Ji also shed light on the significance of the Gita. He remarked, "The guidance Lord Krishna provided to Arjuna on the battlefield remains relevant to our lives today. The harmonization of self-control and desires not only fosters mental equilibrium but also contributes to peace and harmony in society."

The program commenced with a poetic recital by young artist Navya Sharma, presenting a Krishna-Arjuna dialogue: “The longer you hesitate to raise Gandiva here, the darker the halls of Indraprastha will grow.” Following this, Shifa Azad Katheriya captivated the audience with a piano performance of Gita verses and prayers, which received widespread appreciation.

Program coordinator Dr. Shashi Jain highlighted that, on this occasion, young artists Navya Sharma, Shifa Azad Katheriya, and Unnati Mishra were honored for their remarkable performances. Shifa attributed her success to her mentor, Amit Gupta.

In his inaugural speech, Dr. Deepak Kumar Shrivastava remarked, "For continuous progress, one must adopt the path of transformation rather than retaliation. The Gita teaches us that self-control, when directed correctly, leads to success in both personal and social life."

This program not only served as a platform to propagate the teachings of the Gita but also as a meaningful effort to inspire the youth toward self-control and the judicious harmonization of desires.