Jada Pinkett Smith to Hugh Jackman: Hollywood stars inspired by the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita

Seeking a break from the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, tinsel’s brightest stars seek solace and inspiration in the pages of ancient Indian Vedic texts. These celebrities spoke about their spiritual journeys, delving into the wisdom of the sacred literature Bhagavad Gita. From Jada Pinkett Smith turning to a text meant to help embrace abstinence to Hugh Jackman turning to scripture for truth and mortality, here’s a list of Hollywood stars inspired by the teachings of the Holy Book.

Jada Pinkett Smith, who has made headlines for her revelations about her personal life and separation from husband Will Smith. The actress, who chronicled her personal journey in her new memoir, also opened up about her spiritual transformation. The actress describes herself as an “urban nun” who shares her daily practices of meditation and reading sacred texts, including the Bhagavad Gita, the Koran and the Bible. Jada said she turns to scripture to abstain from sex, alcohol, violent entertainment and unnecessary spending, choosing a more contemplative and mindful lifestyle.

Cillian Murphy, who played physicist Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, turned to the Bhagavad Gita to prepare for the role. This sacred text had a profound influence on Oppenheimer, who famously mentioned it after the successful testing of the world’s first atomic bomb. Murphy acknowledged the “beauty and inspiration” he found in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing its role in providing solace to those who seek it.

Singer Shawn Mendes went on a spiritual journey after his split from Camila Cabello. Speaking about this transformation, Mendes said he turned to meditation and spirituality to find balance amid the demands of fame. He delved into religious texts, including the Bhagavad Gita, and even devoted Thursdays to meditation and scripture discussions with Jay Shetty.

During a promotional tour in India, actor Will Smith expressed his deep connection with the Bhagavad Gita. He shared his love for the history of the text and surprised fans when he revealed that he had already read 90 percent of the holy book. Smith said that reading the Bhagavad Gita made him feel like his inner “Arjuna” was being channeled.

Hugh Jackman, known for his role as Wolverine, spoke about his spiritual journey and how he was drawn to the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. In an interview with TOI, Jackman expressed his affinity for Vedic traditions and its resonance with his quest for truth and mortality. He finds solace in the philosophical concepts presented in these ancient texts, blending Eastern and Western philosophies in his spiritual studies. “I naturally end up leaning towards this Vedic tradition… I think it suits me and my sensibilities,” he said.