Spiritual and academic communities across Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions celebrate Guru Purnima. Which is also known as Vyasa Purnima, to honor and thank their teachers. Observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July). This occasion marks the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the legendary sage who compiled the Vedas and authored the Mahabharata. Guru Purnima 2025 will be held on 10th July Thursday.
Guru Mantra
॥ ॐ गुरु ब्रह्मा गुरु विष्णु गुरु देवो महेश्वरः। गुरु साक्षात परब्रह्म तस्मै श्री गुरवे नमः॥
Spiritual Significance
- The word Guru derives from Sanskrit: Gu (darkness) and Ru (remover), symbolizing the one who dispels ignorance and leads seekers toward enlightenment.
- Devotees in Hinduism honor their spiritual masters on this day by performing rituals, offering Guru Puja, and reciting sacred texts like the Guru Gita.
- Buddhists commemorate this day as the occasion when Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath. On this day he initiated the Dharma Chakra Pravartana.
- In Jain tradition, it marks the moment when Lord Mahavira accepted Gautam Swami as his first disciple, becoming a Guru himself.
Rituals and Observances
- Guru Puja: Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and symbolic gifts to their gurus or their images.
- Paduka Worship: The sandals of the guru, revered as symbols of divine presence.
- Spiritual Discourses: Ashrams and temples host satsangs, bhajans, and teachings to deepen spiritual understanding.
- Charity and Seva: Acts of service, donations, and community support, these encouraged as expressions of gratitude.
- Chaturmas Begins: For many ascetics, Guru Purnima marks the start of a four-month spiritual retreat during the monsoon season.
Cultural Resonance
- In Nepal, Guru Purnima doubles as Teacher’s Day, where students honor their mentors with garlands and traditional gifts.
- Classical musicians and dancers in India pay homage to their gurus through performances and offerings.
- The festival transcends religious boundaries, emphasizing the universal value of wisdom, mentorship, and inner growth.
Guru Purnima 2025 Highlights
- Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025
- Purnima Tithi: Begins at 1:36 AM on July 10 and ends at 2:06 AM on July 114
- Shubh Muhurat: Includes Brahma Muhurat (4:10–4:50 AM) and Abhijit Muhurat (11:59 AM–12:54 PM)
Reflections on the Guru-Shishya Bond
Guru Purnima is not just a day of rituals—it’s a moment to reflect on the transformative power of guidance as per astrologer Ramapada Acharjee. Whether through scriptures, personal mentorship, or silent inspiration, the guru is the bridge between the seeker and the truth. As Sri Aurobindo beautifully said, “A guru is the bridge between the student and the ultimate truth.”