THE BHAGWAD GITA: A ROADMAP FOR MENTAL WELL-BEING

In this shloka, Lord Krishna states that he shall descend whenever there is decline in righteousness and rise of irreligion, in order to destroy evil and establish dharma. The Bhagwat Gita, a part of the epic Mahabharata, is a sermon Krishna delivered to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurekshetra. The treatise unfolds a deep philosophy of the soul’s immortal nature, of Karma and right action, Sankhya and Yoga. The knowledge imbued in the Gita is so profound that it has been interpreted by many and needs several readings before one grasps the subtle layers of meanings embedded within the text. The principles enshrined in it are for everyone, irrespective of religion, race, and nationality; for they are life principles that unfold practices of right deeds, right thoughts, humility, righteousness and many more. In a world torn by war, in times when mental health has become a global challenge with loneliness, depression and anxiety impacting lives, the Gita is a refuge, a book that answers many complex questions. It is therefore that it is an integral part of Indian culture. One needs to view it not just as a religious text, but as a handbook that deals with multifarious facets of life.