The Bhagvat Katha (or Shrimad Bhagwat Katha) is a key spiritual and educational component of the International Gita Mahotsav (IGM), underscoring the philosophical depth of the festival.

The Role and Nature of the Katha

• Focus: While the IGM primarily celebrates the Bhagavad Gita (the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna), the Bhagvat Katha focuses on the Shrimad Bhagwatam (or Bhagavata Purana), which narrates the life and divine activities of Lord Krishna. These two texts are deeply interconnected, forming the essential foundation of Vaishnava philosophy.

• Format: The Katha is a series of daily discourses given by highly revered and prominent spiritual leaders (kathakar or sant). These discourses run over several days, offering in-depth interpretation, moral lessons, and devotional narratives to the vast audience of devotees.

• Venue: For the IGM in Kurukshetra, the main Katha venue is often a large, designated area on the banks of the Brahma Sarovar, specifically at the Purushotam Pura Bagh.

• Key Speaker for IGM 2025: For the 2025 Mahotsav, a significant Katha was organized with the discourses led by the highly revered Padma Vibhushan-awardee, Jagadguru Rambhadracharya. This particular Katha was scheduled to run for several days, specifically from November 26 to 30, 2025, demonstrating its status as a major devotional highlight of the festival.

The Bhagvat Katha provides pilgrims with an opportunity for intense, guided spiritual reflection, deepening their connection to Lord Krishna and the broader devotional and philosophical traditions of Hinduism.