Gitanushilanam 2023: A Celebration of Krishna Consciousness and Talent
Published On: 2023-09-07
Gitanushilanam, the annual extravaganza of Krishna conscious competitions at Bhaktivedanta Gurukula and International School, graced us once again on the 1st and 2nd of September 2023. With its roots deeply embedded in the celebration of Janmashtami, this fest serves as a spiritual and creative haven for students from diverse schools, nurturing their connection with Lord Krishna.
The heartwarming essence of 'Gitanushilanam' lies in its mission to immerse young minds in the devotion of the Lord. Months of meticulous preparation culminated in these two remarkable days. Schools from Mathura and beyond were invited to participate in a range of Krishna-centered competitions, including the Krishna Quiz, Bhagavad Gita Shloka Recitation, Bhagavad Gita Art Competition, Krishna Bhajan Singing Competition, Dance Competition, and extempore speaking. This year, over 500 students from approximately 15 schools graced us with their talent and enthusiasm, painting 'Gitanushilanam' as a vivid canvas of art and devotion.
The fest commenced on the 1st of September with a ceremonial lamp lighting by Dr. Sudhir Goyal, the Head of the Civil Engineering department at GLA University, BGIS Dean Radhakant Das, Lila Govind Prabhu and several other dignitaries. Distinguished guests like Yograj Singh, Director of SND Public School, Palwal, Dr. Ekta Kapoor from Sanskriti University, and Sureshwar Prabhu, the director of ISKCON Youth Forum, Vrindavan, enriched the day with their inspiring speeches. The inaugural day saw the Krishna Quiz, where the top six teams, chosen after a rigorous preliminary round, engaged in an intense battle of wits. Simultaneously, in the conference room, students recited verses from the Bhagavad Gita, while the Gauranga Hall and Jagannath Hall became showcases for their artistic talents.
The second day of 'Gitanushilanam' was equally spectacular, with the presence of notable guests and judges for various competitions. HG Panchgauda Prabhu, President of ISKCON Vrindavan, and Manisha Arora, an IAS officer from Rajasthan, inspired the students with their wisdom, reminding them of the profound purpose of education. Dr. Ashok, former Vice Chancellor of Mangalyatan University and a research faculty at Harvard University, added his esteemed presence to the occasion. The day was adorned with enchanting dance performances and melodious singing by students from different schools, captivating the audience.
As the sun set on the second day, the grand finale approached with the announcement of winners and a heartwarming prize-giving ceremony. Chief guests bestowed trophies upon the victorious participants, marking their exceptional talent and devotion. Moreover, students who had excelled academically in the previous session were honored with 'academic excellence awards.' 'Gitanushilanam' 2023 will forever remain etched in our memories as a profound, soul-stirring experience, uniting hearts and minds in the divine celebration of Lord Krishna.
