Founded in 1923, Gita Press, Gorakhpur, is one of the most renowned spiritual institutions in India, dedicated to spreading the teachings of Sanatana Dharma and promoting the values of peace, happiness, and self-upliftment. As a unit of Gobind Bhawan Karyalaya, it has become a beacon of spiritual literature, disseminating the wisdom of Hindu scriptures at highly subsidized prices to ensure accessibility for people from all walks of life. Its core mission is to empower individuals through the principles outlined in sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Upanishads, and other important Puranas and religious discourses.
The Founder and Vision
The institution was founded by Brahmalina Shri Jayadayalji Goyandka, an enlightened soul who deeply believed in the transformative power of the Bhagavad Gita. He saw it as the ultimate remedy for human suffering and the key to leading a righteous life. With this profound belief, he started publishing the Gita and other essential Hindu scriptures to promote positive thoughts and actions, thus spreading good intent among the masses. Today, Gita Press continues his legacy, striving for the betterment of humanity and the promotion of the art of living as propounded in the Gita.
Governing Structure
Managed by the Governing Council (Trust Board), Gita Press operates with a strong sense of purpose and discipline. The institution does not solicit donations nor accepts advertisements in its publications. Instead, any deficit in funding is covered by the surplus from other departments of the society, which offer services at reasonable costs. This model ensures that Gita Press can continue its mission without any external financial dependence, focusing purely on its spiritual and moral objectives.
Core Offerings and Publications
Gita Press boasts an extensive archive of over 3,500 manuscripts, including more than 100 different interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita. The institution publishes a wide variety of spiritual and character-building books and magazines aimed at promoting values like truth, love, and peace.
Some of the primary categories of books available at Gita Press include:
- Shrimad Bhagavad Gita: The cornerstone of their publications, available in various interpretations and formats.
- Ramayana: The epic tale of Lord Rama, also published in multiple versions.
- Ramchritmanas: The devotional epic by Tulsidas.
- Literature of Soordas and Tulsidas: Collections of devotional poetry and songs.
- Puranas and Upanishads: Key scriptures that offer profound insights into ancient Indian philosophy and spirituality.
- Devotee Characters: Inspirational stories of spiritual devotees.
- Books for Daily Practice and Worship: Practical guides for daily religious rituals.
- Children’s Books: Books designed to instill spiritual values in young minds.
In addition, Gita Press also publishes the Kalyan magazine, which has been a cherished source of spiritual discourse for many readers. Each month, new additions are made to its collection, keeping the content fresh and relevant.
Language Accessibility
Understanding the linguistic diversity of India, Gita Press offers its books in over 12 languages. While the majority of publications are in Hindi, they also cater to readers in Marathi, Gujarati, Oriya, Telugu, Kannada, English, Bangla, Tamil, Assamese, and even Sanskrit. This wide array of languages ensures that their literature is accessible to a global audience, making spiritual knowledge available to people from different regions and backgrounds.
Digital Presence: E-books and Online Store
In keeping with the digital age, Gita Press offers its traditional publications in digital format as well. Their E-books are available in multiple languages and can be read and downloaded for free, allowing greater accessibility to spiritual knowledge. Additionally, Gita Press runs an online book store where readers can purchase physical copies of books and have them delivered conveniently to their doorstep.
Branches and Global Reach
With its main headquarters in Gorakhpur, Gita Press also operates from several other key locations, including:
- Gobind Bhawan, Kolkata: The parent institution overseeing the operations of Gita Press.
- Gita Bhawan, Rishikesh: A significant center of spiritual learning and practice.
- Ayurved Sansthan, Rishikesh: A center focused on Ayurvedic practices and healing.
- Vedic School: An institution dedicated to the study and teaching of Vedic texts and philosophy.
These branches further enhance the reach and impact of Gita Press, ensuring that its message of peace, spirituality, and moral upliftment is propagated across India and beyond.
Conclusion
Gita Press stands as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment, dedicated to promoting the teachings of Hinduism and guiding individuals toward a life of peace, purpose, and moral integrity. Through its extensive collection of books, magazines, and digital offerings, it continues to be a beacon of hope for those seeking spiritual guidance. Whether in print or online, Gita Press makes sacred Hindu scriptures accessible to everyone, regardless of background or location, ensuring that the message of the Bhagavad Gita and other sacred texts continues to inspire and uplift mankind for generations to come.