International Gita Mahotsav: PM to participate in ‘Maha Aarti’ in Kurukshetra, Rajnath to inaugurate Haryana pavilion

Haryana’s Energy Minister Anil Vij on Saturday requested Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini that November 25 be declared a gazetted holiday to mark the martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur.

In his letter to Saini, Vij stated that “the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur is an invaluable inspiration for the entire humanity. Guru Sahib sacrificed his life for the protection of faith, human rights, and truth — which is why he is revered as Hind ki Chadar”.

He said that the Guru’s 350th martyrdom anniversary is commemorated across the country with “immense devotion and grandeur”. “In such circumstances, a ‘restricted holiday’ is not sufficient, as lakhs of devotees and government employees wish to participate fully in these observances… The 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur holds immense religious, historical, and social significance. Considering the sentiments of millions of devotees, November 25, 2025 should be declared a gazetted holiday,” he added.

Meanwhile, a huge pandal has been set up over 155 acres in Jyotisar and the government expects around one and a half lakh devotees from across the state to attend the event.

“Every major intersection in Kurukshetra is being developed based on the theme of Mahabharata. Work is also underway to illuminate all the temples of the city with decorative lights,” a government spokesperson said.

“The International Gita Mahotsav has been underway in Kurukshetra since November 15. With the cooperation of the Ministry of External Affairs, Gita Mahotsav celebrations are being organised in 50 countries. This time, Madhya Pradesh has been included as the partner state. On November 24, a three-day International Gita Seminar will be inaugurated at Shrimad Bhagavad Gita Sadan, Kurukshetra University. To make the festival grand and memorable, the entire city is being decorated with lights. A massive cleanliness drive is also being carried out across the city,” the spokesperson added.

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