Guru is the Light in the Dark, an Inspiration and an Aspiration, Happy Guru Purnima!

Guru Purnima is a traditional Hindu celebration, dedicated to enlightened spiritual master otherwise known as gurus. This auspicious day falls on the first full moon and as per the Hindu Month in Ashad (July to August). This day is celebrated in India, Nepal and Bhutan by Hindus, Jain, and Buddhists.

This festival is traditionally observed to honour one’s chosen spiritual teachers or leaders.

WHAT IS THE STORY BEHIND GURU PURNIMA?

Guru Purnima is also the day that marks the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the author of the great Indian epic, Mahabharata. This day is also known as Vyasa Purnima. The term ‘Gu’ in Guru stands for darkness, and ‘Ru’ means removal of darkness. Thus a guru is someone who removes all darkness from our lives.

IMPORTANCE OF GURU PURNIMA

Guru Purnima is celebrated to honour our teacher, who remove the darkness from our mind. All the holy books of Hinduism dictate the importance of Gurus and the extraordinary bond between a Guru and his Shishya. An-old Sanskrit phase ‘Mata Pitah Guru Daivam’, says that the first place is reserved for the mother, second for the father, third for guru and forth for God. Thus, teachers have been given a higher place than Gods in Hindu tradition.

HOW TO CELEBRATE GURU PURNIMA

Guru Purnima is usually celebrated by worshipping and expressing gratitude to the gods who like our Gurus. “On this day, one should dedicate oneself to following the guru’s principle and teachings and put them into practice. Guru Purnima has the importance of Vishnu puja attached to it. ‘Vishnu Sahatranam’ also known as the thousand names of Lord Vishnu should be recited on this day. Be in sync with self and channelize your energies on this auspicious day.”