On the occasion of Vishwavasu – Ugadi Year, Dr. L.V. Gangadhara Sastry, the founder of Bhagavadgita Foundation and a prominent Bhagavadgita singer, preacher and propagator, delivered a Bhagavadgita musical discourse at an event organized by Fun Times, The Family Recreation Center in Vijayawada.
He emphasized that Bhagavadgita undoubtedly influences human thought and way of life, stating that it is the highest lesson that can shape an ordinary person into an enlightened one. He stressed that Bhagavadgita is not just a book to be read, but a scripture to be practiced and that it should be learned from childhood as a non-sectarian spiritual guide. As part of his discourse, he melodiously rendered verses from Bhagavadgita, providing meaningful explanations. He captivated the audience by singing the Vishwaroopa Darshana chapter with its profound meaning, leaving the audience deeply moved. He urged all Hindus to unite and appeal to the government to include Bhagavadgita in the academic curriculum.
Speaking about the predictions for Vishwavasu Nama Samvatsara, the 39th year in the 60-year Telugu calendar cycle, he stated that this year signifies prosperity and progress in almost all fields. Dr. Sastry elaborated on the concept of cosmic time, explaining that one day of Brahma is 4.32 billion years, and an equal duration is his night. He clarified that a “Kalpa” (epoch) spans Brahma’s day, during which creation occurs, while all beings dissolve into non-existence during his night. He emphasized that Ugadi signifies the beginning of creation, unlike January 1st, which is merely a change of date without scientific or scriptural significance. He also urged parents to ensure children do not drift away from the Telugu language, encouraging them to spend time with their children and instill spiritual values in them. He emphasized the importance of teaching children about significant Hindu festivals, such as:
Chaitra Shuddha Padyami – Ugadi (New Year)
Chaitra Shuddha Navami – Sri Rama’s Birth Anniversary
Shravana Bahula Ashtami – Sri Krishna’s Birth Anniversary
Bhadrapada Shuddha Chaviti – Lord Ganesha’s Birth Anniversary
Magha Bahula Chaturdashi – Lord Shiva’s Manifestation Day
Margashira Shuddha Ekadashi – Bhagavadgita Jayanti
Dr. Sastry also emphasized that children should be familiarized with concepts such as virtue, truth, righteousness, liberation, selfless action, and duty consciousness, as these are essential for leading a noble life. He reiterated that Hindu philosophy is universal, inclusive, and beneficial to all beings.
The Fun Times members declared that Dr. Sastry’s discourse was the most prestigious and enlightening event in their club’s history. As a token of their appreciation, they honored him with the title “Gita Seva Kaustubha,” draping him in a ceremonial shawl. Devotees of Bhagavadgita showered him with flower petals in reverence. Dr. Sastry expressed his gratitude to the event organizers, including Sri Dhyan Chandra, Sri Borra Radhakrishna, Smt. Atluri Sumabindu, Sri Kilari Shivaji, Sri Kosaraju Vijaya Babu, and Sri Muppavarapu Satish Babu. He extended special thanks to Sri Balaji Babu and his brother Sri Leelaji Babu, who warmly invited him. He also honored the event sponsors, SLV Group Chairman Sri P. Srinivasa Raju and his wife, for their generous support.
