The High Commission of India in Accra has marked this year’s International Gita Mahotsav with a cultural and spiritual gathering that drew more than 250 participants from Ghana’s Hindu community, Indian diaspora groups and affiliated organisations.
The event was maimed at celebrating and promoting the universal teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on peace, harmony, selfless action and the shared cultural values between India and Ghana, contributing to the strengthening of warm and friendly relations between the two nations.
Celebration of Shared Traditions
Representatives from the six branches of the Hindu Monastery of Africa, ISKCON, the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and Hindu Vidya Mission joined members of the Indian community for the commemoration. The ceremony opened with the lighting of the lamp and the recitation of Sanskrit verses by children from ISKCON.
High Commissioner Manish Gupta underscored the Gita’s relevance to everyday life, noting that although the scripture was revealed centuries ago, its guidance remains practical and timeless. He also pointed to the inscription of the Bhagavad Gita in UNESCO’s World Register of Memory in April 2025 as recognition of its global, cultural and civilizational significance.
Reflections on Duty and Leadership
Leaders from the various Hindu organisations shared their perspectives on the Gita’s core teachings.
- George Ebo Crentsil, General Secretary of the Hindu Monastery of Africa, spoke about duty, dharma and leadership as essential principles for moral living.
- Ashwiini Ddarak of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh stressed that the Gita is a guide for leading a purposeful and peaceful life.
- H.G. Srivas Das Vancari Maharaj explained how the teachings of Lord Krishna help individuals face life’s challenges with clarity and courage.
- Dr Davis Boison of the Hindu Monastery pledged to uphold the Gita’s call to lead with integrity and fulfil one’s duty with devotion.
- Nimeesha Gupta, spouse of the High Commissioner, dwelled on teachings of Gita emphasizing on controlling the mind through meditation and yoga. She also emphasized how the sacred text offers timeless guidance on achieving mastery over the mind, explaining that practices such as meditation and yoga serve as powerful tools for cultivating inner discipline, clarity, and emotional balance.
Music, Recitations and Exhibitions
The programme featured devotional kirtans and bhajans by members of the Hindu Monastery, along with a presentation of the 15th Chapter of the Gita by children from Hindu Vidya Mission. Children from the Hindu Monastery also recited Sanskrit shlokas, expressing gratitude for their participation. An exhibition on the teachings of the Gita, organized by ISKCON, provided attendees with insights into India’s rich spiritual heritage.
ISKCON mounted an exhibition on the teachings of the Gita, offering insights into India’s spiritual heritage.
A Fitting Conclusion
The event ended with the Gita Aarti, leaving attendees with a renewed appreciation for the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and its message of harmony and selfless service.
