Geeta Gyan Yagna at Oklahoma
By: Pujya Shree Bhupendrabhai Pandya
Report By: Anjana Patel

Oklahomans were once again rejoicing in the holy presence of Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai Pandya. Having previously heard from him discourses on the Ramayan and Shreemad Bhagavat, a seven-day discourse was held this year on the second chapter of the Bhagavad Geeta between June 12 and 18. Organizing religious discourses during the summer has become a tradition for the Gujarati Samaj of Oklahoma. The summer occurrences help enhance the participation of the youth of the area. For the past three years, our community has been honored by the divine presence and blessings of Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai Pandya. The sponsors for this year's discourse were Manharbhai and Bhartiben Patel.

The seven days that we spent with Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai seemed all too short compared to the vast amount of knowledge he shared with us. His interpretation of Lord Krushna's words left us with a thirst for more knowledge, a greater understanding of our world and our selves and a desire to become more spiritual. With each passing day, there was an increase in both the audience and their interest. This was due to the discourse providing terms that were easily understood, examples we could relate to in our everyday lives and stories which brought tears to our eyes. As we began to read the Geeta, we felt as if Lord Krushna was speaking to us. He was showing us a way to lead our lives, experience our souls, thereby giving us a sense of inner peace. Those of us that attended the discourse left with a sense of direction, fulfillment and peace.

At a seminar aimed specifically for the youth, Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai explained what it means to be Hindu, and the unique characteristics of our ancient culture. It not only gave a thorough introduction, but also highlighted the salient features of Hinduism.

We hope that Pujyashree Bhupendrabhai will bless us again in the future with equally enlightening discourses. For the Gujarati Samaj of Oklahoma, it was an honor to have hosted this event and to have shared such a divine experience.