By BollyScoop
The Bhagavad Gita isn’t just an ancient Indian scripture – it’s a global source of wisdom that’s inspired some of the most famous minds and celebrities worldwide. From physicists to actors, here are 13 international icons who have openly shared how the Gita shaped their beliefs, guided their lives, or simply blew their minds.
1. J. Robert Oppenheimer – The “Father of the Atomic Bomb” Who Quoted the Gita
After witnessing the first atomic bomb test, Oppenheimer famously recalled a line from the Bhagavad Gita: “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.” He read the Gita in Sanskrit and said its teachings on duty and detachment deeply influenced his view of science and responsibility. (Image)
2. Albert Einstein – The Genius Who Found Answers in the Gita
Einstein once said, “When I read the Bhagavad-Gita and reflect about how God created this universe everything else seems so superfluous.” For him, the Gita was a profound source of inspiration and helped him ponder the mysteries of the cosmos. (Image Source)
3. Hugh Jackman – Wolverine’s Spiritual Side Revealed
The Hollywood star has talked about his connection to the Gita and Vedic philosophy, blending Eastern spirituality with his own life journey. He credits the Gita for offering him guidance and comfort, especially when facing life’s big questions.
4. Jada Pinkett Smith – The “Urban Nun” Who Meditates with the Gita
I have read the Bhagavad Gita… but I am not a Hindu.
— Jada Pinkett Smith (@jadapsmith) September 19, 2017
Jada calls herself an “urban nun” and includes the Bhagavad Gita in her daily spiritual practice. She’s shared how the text helps her embrace mindfulness, self-control, and a deeper understanding of life.
5. Will Smith – The Fresh Prince Who Channels His Inner Arjuna
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During a visit to India, Will Smith revealed he had read most of the Gita and felt a strong connection to Arjuna’s struggles. He said the Gita helped him find clarity and strength in his personal and professional life.
6. Cillian Murphy – The Actor Who Found Inspiration Playing Oppenheimer
While preparing for his role as Oppenheimer, Murphy read the Gita and described its teachings as “beautiful and inspiring.” The text gave him philosophical insights that helped him portray the complex physicist.
7. Erwin Schrödinger – Quantum Physics Meets Hindu Philosophy
The Nobel-winning physicist called the Gita “the most beautiful philosophical song existing in any known tongue.” Its ideas about consciousness and unity influenced his groundbreaking work in quantum mechanics. (Image)
8. Sunita Williams – The Astronaut Who Took the Gita to Space
Williams carried a copy of the Bhagavad Gita on her space missions. She found its teachings on duty and perseverance helped her stay focused and grounded while orbiting Earth. (Image)
9. George Harrison – The Beatles Legend Who Spread Krishna Consciousness
George Harrison Bhagavad Gita
Harrison’s devotion to Krishna and Hinduism was deeply inspired by the Gita. Its teachings influenced his music and personal philosophy, with songs like “My Sweet Lord” reflecting his spiritual journey. (Image)
10. Henry David Thoreau – The Transcendentalist Who Bathed His Mind in the Gita
Thoreau praised the Gita as superior to contemporary literature and said he bathed his intellect in its philosophy every morning. The text fueled his ideas about nature, self-reliance, and spirituality. (Image)
11. Aldous Huxley – The Writer Who Called the Gita a Spiritual Masterpiece
Huxley described the Gita as “the most systematic statement of spiritual evolution.” He believed its wisdom was universal and essential for humanity’s growth. (Image)
12. Ralph Waldo Emerson – The Poet Who Heard an Empire Speak
Emerson admired the Gita’s grandeur and universal wisdom, saying it spoke “nothing small or unworthy, but large, serene, consistent.” It shaped his transcendentalist views on life and spirituality.
13. Philip Glass – The Composer Influenced by Hindu Philosophy
Glass has acknowledged the Gita’s impact on his music and worldview, blending its spiritual themes into his compositions and creative process.
Why Does the Bhagavad Gita Matter to These Icons?
Whether it’s grappling with life’s purpose, facing moral dilemmas, or seeking peace amid chaos, the Bhagavad Gita offers timeless wisdom that transcends culture and profession. These famous figures prove that its teachings still resonate – inspiring courage, clarity, and compassion around the world.
Feeling inspired? Maybe it’s time to dive into the Bhagavad Gita yourself.
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