As India celebrates Gita Jayanti today, the day marking the commencement of the divine dialogue between Arjun and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, it’s noteworthy that the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita have transcended borders, influencing people across the globe, including prominent Hollywood figures.
For many, the Bhagavad Gita’s profound wisdom provides guidance in times of crisis and self-reflection. Hollywood celebrities like Hugh Jackman, Shawn Mendes, Will Smith, and Vin Diesel have openly acknowledged the impact of the ancient scripture on their personal lives and spiritual journeys.
Hugh Jackman’s Reflection on Life and Death
For Hugh Jackman, the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings are deeply intertwined with the concepts of life, death, and peace. In a past interview, Jackman shared how researching for a film that involved watching a brain surgery led him to confront his own mortality. Reflecting on this experience, he credited the Bhagavad Gita with helping him find peace with such daunting thoughts.
Shawn Mendes’ Spiritual Journey
For singer Shawn Mendes, personal challenges, particularly in his love life, prompted a deeper exploration of spirituality. In 2021, Mendes admitted to regularly meditating and discussing the Bhagavad Gita with renowned motivational speaker Jay Shetty, a practice that helped him find balance and stability during tumultuous times.
Will Smith and His Connection with Arjun
Actor Will Smith is another celebrity who has openly spoken about the influence of the Bhagavad Gita on his life. During a podcast conversation with Jay Shetty, Smith shared how he found a deep connection with the character of Arjun, drawing inspiration from the warrior’s journey. Smith has also credited Sadhguru with playing a significant role in his personal development.
Special Mentions: Christopher Nolan and Vin Diesel
Not only individuals, but their work also reflects the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings. Director Christopher Nolan and actor Vin Diesel have both referenced the holy text in their films. Nolan’s Oppenheimer (2023) delves into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, who famously quoted the Gita with the phrase “Now I am become death, the destroyer of the world.” This line, steeped in irony, was a pivotal moment in Nolan’s film, linking Oppenheimer’s role in the creation of the atomic bomb with the ancient wisdom of the Gita.
Similarly, Vin Diesel’s iconic quote from the Bhagavad Gita in Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (2016) – “Always perform with detachment, any action you must do. And surrender all actions to me” – garnered attention for its philosophical depth, further showcasing the Gita’s universal appeal.
On this Gita Jayanti, it’s inspiring to see how the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita continue to resonate, not only within India but also with international figures seeking wisdom and guidance in their personal and professional lives.
