Guru Purnima is a Hindu festival dedicated to teachers. We celebrate it on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July). On this day, we honor our guru or teacher and thank them for their guidance.

Historical Significance

Guru Purnima has deep meaning in Hindu tradition. It honors the sage Vyasa, who is one of the greatest gurus. Vyasa wrote the Mahabharata and divided the Vedas into four parts, making them easier to access. This day also marks when Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, after reaching enlightenment.

The Role of the Guru

In Indian culture, a guru is a guiding light, helping us overcome ignorance. The word “guru” means “dispeller of darkness” (where ‘gu’ means darkness and ‘ru’ means remover). The importance of a guru is clear in this Sanskrit shloka:

“Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnu Gurur Devo Maheshwaraha Guru Saakshaat ParaBrahma Tasmai Sri Gurave Namaha”

This means: “The Guru is Brahma (the creator), the Guru is Vishnu (the preserver), the Guru is Maheshwara (Shiva, the destroyer). The Guru is the Supreme Brahman itself. We honor that revered Guru.”

Celebrations and Rituals

We celebrate Guru Purnima with different rituals. Disciples perform a ‘Guru Puja’ to honor their gurus. Spiritual seekers meditate, chant scriptures, and offer special prayers. Schools and colleges also celebrate by organizing events where students thank their teachers.

Quotes on the Significance of a Guru

Swami Vivekananda: “The Guru is the bright mask which God wears to come to us. As we look steadily, the mask falls off, and God is revealed.”

Sri Ramakrishna: “The Guru is like a compass that helps the disciple navigate life.”

Kabir Das: “Guru bina gyaan na upaje, guru bina mile na moksha” (“Without the Guru, there is no knowledge; without the Guru, there is no liberation.”)

Dnyaneshwar: “One may have wealth and enjoy comforts, but without a Guru, the soul remains restless and yearns for true peace.”

Modern Celebrations

Today, Guru Purnima is not only a spiritual event but also a time for students to thank their teachers. Schools and colleges hold cultural programs and activities to honor the role of teachers in guiding and shaping lives.

Conclusion

Guru Purnima celebrates the bond between the guru and the disciple. We reflect on the teachings from our mentors and thank them for their support. As we honor our gurus, we recognize their role in guiding us with knowledge and wisdom.

“Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the gardeners who make our souls blossom.” – Marcel Proust

This Guru Purnima, take a moment to thank those who have guided, taught, and helped you grow.