Bhagavad Gita holds solutions to rising mental health issues: K K Mohammed

Renowned historian and archaeologist KK Mohammed, known for his significant role in the excavation of the Ayodhya Sri Ram Mandir, was honored by Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripada of the Puthige Matha at the ‘Geethotsava’ celebration held at the Basavanagudi National College Grounds in Bengaluru.

Geethotsava was organized by the Bhavi Pariya Sri Puthige Matha Koti Gita Lekhana Yajna Samiti.

During the event, Mr. Mohammed expressed his childhood fascination with the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting the profound influence of its verses. He also shared impactful experiences from the excavations. Mr. Mohammed said that during excavation at Ayodhya in the early days of the Ram Temple issue, archaeologists found some pillars under the Babri Masjid, and some terracotta idols too.

The pillars were constructed much earlier than the masjid. Archaeologists have been trained to estimate and find out the age and period of any old structure and they always speak the truth. They have no agenda, political or social. The idols also proved that it was originally a Hindu structure because Islamic structures do not house idols, he said.

Mr. Mohammad said that it was sad to see people playing politics over a simple issue and needlessly creating a controversy just to irritate the majority community. He and his fellow archaeologists were believers in truth and felt the past should be depicted as it was. There was no room for religious bias… The same logic applies for all structures of all faiths which have had a past, he added.

He emphasized the significance of teachings of the Gita, considering the rising prevalence of mental health issues in current times.

Recognizing Mohammed’s dedication to his profession, Puthige Sri praised his honesty and presented him with a Koti Gita Lekhana Yajna book. Additionally, Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripada’s Navneetha Gita was unveiled by KK Mohammed on this auspicious occasion.

Earlier in the day, three scholars presented Advaita, Vishistadvaita and Dvaita perspectives of Bhagavad Gita. Other dignitaries too spoke of the majesty of Gita. A top executive of a television company said a former Chief Minister of Karnataka always referred to the Gita whenever he faced complex issues which needed ideal resolution.

On the second day of Geetotsava on December 24 Sunday, mass Vishnu Sahasranama chanting was organized under the aegis of Taulava Madhwa Okkoota, Bengaluru, and other organisations and many eminent personalities spoke about the greatness of Vishnu Sahasranama.

(With inputs from Venkatesh Bhat)