Introduction to the Bhagavad Gita

 The Bhagavad Gita has acclaimed to be a gospel of life. It is one of the प्रस्थानत्रयी (phases of Indian philosophy and culture), the other two being the Upanishads and the Brahmasutras. The Gita is found to be a part of the Bhishmaparva of the great epic Mahabharata. It comprises of 700 verses spread over 18 chapters.

While fighting for the kingdom of Hastinapura, the Kauravas and Pandavas were helped by Lord Krishna. The Narayani Sena of Krishna was chosen by the Kauravas, while the Pandavas chose Lord Krishna Himself, who became the charioteer of Arjuna. While Arjuna was in a dilemma in the middle of the battlefield, the Gita was narrated by the Lord. Arjuna was just a means, however the Gita has been propounded to the entire mankind. Many ways of attaining the Supreme, such as have been described in the Bhagavad Gita. All these ways ultimately reach the same abode of the Lord.

The fundamentals of the Hindu religion and Hindu Dharma are lucidly explained in the Gita. It is the essence of the Upanishads. It is the ocean of nectar. Many commentaries like the Gita Rahasya by Lokmanya Tilak, commentaries by Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya have been written on the Gita.

The language of the Bhagavad Gita is very simple, and thus every common man can easily read and understand the Gita. 

Thus, the thorough study of the Bhagavad Gita helps in leading a successful life.

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