This festival, significant for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, involves fasting, charity, special pujas, and the chanting of mantras.

The holy day of Guru Purnima, which honours spiritual mentors and teachers, falls on July 21 this year. For Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, who thank their gurus for sharing wisdom and knowledge, the event is very important.

Also known as Buddha Purnima and Vyasa Purnima, Guru Purnima falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashadha. The event honours the birth of Ved Vyasa, the Mahabharata’s author, but its main theme is the guru-disciple bond.

Devotees observe fasts, perform special pujas, and offer prayers to their gurus on this day. Charity is also considered auspicious, with donations of water, grains, and clothes believed to bring prosperity. Other auspicious practices include havan, chanting the mantra “Om Brim Brihaspataye Namah,” and serving cows.

The auspicious time for Guru Purnima puja falls between the morning of July 21 and 3:46 pm.

While celebrating Guru Purnima, it is customary to consume satvik foods such as khichdi, kheer, and halwa. However, meat and alcohol are strictly avoided.

The auspicious time for Guru Purnima puja falls between the morning of July 21 and 3:46 pm.

While celebrating Guru Purnima, it is customary to consume satvik foods such as khichdi, kheer, and halwa. However, meat and alcohol are strictly avoided.

As India celebrates Guru Purnima, it is a timely reminder of the invaluable role teachers play in shaping individuals and society.

Special Rituals

Serving cows is another significant tradition believed to bring success in education. Feeding cows with jaggery and flour rotis is a common practice. Chanting the mantra “Om Brim Brihaspataye Namah” 108 times is also recommended to enhance the Guru’s position in one’s horoscope and bring happiness, peace, and prosperity.

Guru Purnima 2024 : Origin

Guru Purnima has its origin deeply rooted in ancient Indian traditions and has significance in

Hinduism,Buddhism,and Jainism. The word “Guru” in Sanskrit refers to a spiritual teacher or guide, and “Purnima” means the full moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar. The festival is believed to have started as an occasion to pay homage to the great sage Vyasa, who is considered one of the greatest gurus and sages in ancient Hindu scriptures and Mythology like the Mahabharata and the Puranas.

Over time, Guru Purnima has evolved into a broader celebration honouring all teachers, spiritual leaders, and mentors who have selflessly shared knowledge and wisdom with others. It is observed with prayers, offerings, and ceremonies expressing gratitude and respect towards gurus and their teachings.

Guru Purnima 2024: History and Significance

Guru Purnima, celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June-July), holds profound significance in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions as a day dedicated to honouring spiritual teachers, mentors, and guides. It is a time for disciples and devotees to express deep gratitude and reverence towards gurus who have illuminated their paths with spiritual wisdom and guidance.

Guru Purnima 2024: Rituals

According to Buddhism, on the day of Guru Purnima, Gautam Buddha delivered the first speech to his first five followers and formed the sangha or the community of disciples. On this day, Hindus wake up early and offer their puja to the Maha Guru. Through the recitation of Maha Gita, the Maha Guru is remembered, and his teachings are cherished. Flowers, gifts, prasad and charanamritha are parts of the ritual on this auspicious day. Ashrams dedicated to Veda Vyasa observe the day with Sandal pujas.

The rituals on this day include visiting temples and ashrams to offer prayers and conduct puja rituals in honour of gurus. Spiritual discourses and satsangs are held on this occasion. Gurus share teachings and insights on spiritual wisdom and the path to enlightenment. Devotees often fast and dedicate their day to meditation, pursuing spiritual cleansing and guidance. Devotees engage in charitable acts and service as a customary practice to celebrate the occasion.

Why Do We Celebrate Guru Purnima?

Guru Purnima is a sacred tradition derived from several stories found in various spiritual teachings.

• One belief holds that on this day, Lord Shiva imparted his wisdom to people, making him the first teacher.
• Another story talks of Ved Vyasa’s birth, who on Guru Purnima shared the Vedic teachings with his four students.
• On this day, according to Buddhist legend, Buddha delivered his first sermon to his followers in Sarnath. Similarly, Jains commemorate Guru Purnima as the day Mahavira, a revered figure, attracted his first follower.