By Yudhishthir Govind Das
Amidst career pressures, digital overload and constant changes, India’s youth are returning to a very familiar old friend, but this time, in a new way, the Bhagavad Gita. Young people in India are highly interested in religion and spirituality, but they do not follow the same path as their elders. The Bhagavad Gita was spoken thousands of years ago and traditionally read in homes and temples. Today it is reaching the youth through phones, reels and podcasts. Gen Z is seeking knowledge through short clips amidst their busy lives. Here’s why the Gita is resonating so deeply among Gen Z and the millennial generation today:
1. Framework for clear thinking
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Be it the Millennials crossing the age of 30 or the Gen-Z crowd whom people expect to see partying in clubs, everyone is getting attracted towards the spiritual path. The Gita introduces various forms of yoga which, among other things, also helps in developing sharp objective thinking. It encourages stepping back, observing emotions, and choosing a well-informed method of decision making rather than impulsive reactions.
2. Strategies for Managing Stress and Anxiety
Academic competition, job uncertainty and the pressure to “figure life out” quickly have made stress a constant companion. The teachings of Geeta on addressing these emotions and challenges are very helpful for young adults when they face such difficulties. To get rid of stress and anxiety problems, one should not only practice the yoga meditation presented in the Geeta but also make changes in one’s lifestyle such as doing regular asanas and pranayams, following a sattvic diet and getting adequate sleep.
3. Shifting the focus from results to effort
For today’s youth, life seems like a constant scoreboard, full of points, job titles, salaries, followers and relationship milestones. The pressure to always stay on track creates fear and self-doubt. Geeta’s principle of Karma Yoga cuts through this noise. It teaches that no matter what, try your best without worrying about the outcome.
4. The search for stability in an unstable world
From economic changes to changing relationships, nothing seems predictable for today’s youth. Amidst this uncertainty, the Gita serves as an anchor that provides timeless clarity when everything else seems ephemeral. Its teachings remind them that peace is not found outside, but built within. For a generation seeking emotional grounding, the Gita has become more than a scripture; It becomes a companion.
(Yudhisthir Govinda Das is the country director of ISKCON India. The views expressed in the article are those of the author.)