BANGALORE: Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda on Sunday said the government was seriously considering a proposal to introduce Bagavad Gita in schools.
The government is holding discussions on introducing Bhagavad Gita lessons in school syllabus. But it would be done only after evolving a consensus without creating any controversy, Gowda said.
Speaking during the Shri Bhagavad Gita Abhiyan Mahasamarpana function on Sunday, he said, “Though many people had raised their voice against the Abhiyan, the overwhelming response shows that the Bhagavad Gita stands as a symbol of communal harmony, and also the most acceptable text.”
Union Minister of State for Railways K H Muniyappa, who was present on the occasion said, “Gita, Quran or Bible are not directed against any religion. Introducing Gita lessons in schools would help strengthen the students’ minds at an early age.”
Gowda said the Abhiyan, which began in October 2007, saw several related events across the state. In this period, the Abhiyan was organised in a masjid at Siddapur in Uttara Kannada, and lectures were given to prisoners in Bellary, Bijapur Gulbarga, Karwar and Mysore. The Gita was presented through drama and dance.
Gowda also said he was amazed when a Muslim girl secured the first place in Gita a recitation competition in Gadag district. He said, “All these are symbols of communal harmony.”
Pejawar Mutt Seer Vishwesha Teertha called on the people to follow the two major messages of Bhagavad Gita: duty and devotion. “If people follow these two messages, then surely we can build a corruption-free society.”