India High Commission Marks Int’l Gita Mahotsav in Accra, Celebrating Universal Teachings of Peace and Duty

 

The High Commission of India in Accra has marked this year’s International Gita Mahotsav with a colourful cultural and spiritual gathering that drew more than 250 participants from Ghana’s Hindu community, Indian diaspora groups, and spiritual organisations.

Held on 15 November 2025, the event highlighted the enduring message of the Bhagavad Gita promoting peace, harmony, selfless action, and universal brotherhood while strengthening cultural ties between Ghana and India.

A Celebration of Shared Values

Representatives from the six branches of the Hindu Monastery of Africa, ISKCON, the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and Hindu Vidya Mission joined the Indian community for the commemoration. The programme opened with the traditional lighting of the lamp and a recitation of Sanskrit verses by children from ISKCON.

High Commissioner Manish Gupta underscored the Gita’s relevance to modern life, noting it was revealed by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra yet continues to offer moral and philosophical guidance today. He also highlighted the inscription of the Bhagavad Gita into UNESCO’s World Register of Memory in April 2025, describing it as global recognition of its cultural and civilizational significance and impact.

Reflections on Duty, Dharma and Leadership

Speakers from various Hindu organisations offered perspectives on the Gita’s lessons.

• George Ebo Crentsil, General Secretary of the Hindu Monastery of Africa, said the principles of duty, dharma and leadership remain essential foundations for moral governance and enlightened living.

• Ashwiini Ddarak of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh described the Gita as a practical guide to purposeful and peaceful living, beyond its religious significance.

• H.G. Srivas Das Vancari Maharaj shared insights on how internalising Krishna’s teachings equips individuals to confront life’s challenges with courage.

• Dr. Davis Boison pledged to uphold the Gita’s call to lead with integrity, walk the path of dharma and carry out one’s duty with devotion.

• Nimeesha Gupta, spouse of the High Commissioner, spoke on controlling the mind through meditation and yoga, stressing that the Gita offers timeless methods for cultivating emotional balance and inner clarity.

Cultural Performances and Spiritual Reflections

The event also featured devotional kirtans and bhajans by the Hindu Monastery, and a dramatic presentation of the Gita’s 15th chapter by children from Hindu Vidya Mission. Young participants from the Hindu Monastery recited shlokas in Sanskrit, receiving warm applause.

ISKCON mounted an exhibition on the Gita’s teachings, giving attendees a chance to explore India’s spiritual heritage.

A Closing of Devotion and Reflection

The celebration concluded with the Gita Aarti, a traditional ceremony that left the audience reflecting on the scripture’s spiritual depth and enduring relevance