In the vast Indian traditions, Guru Purnima holds a special place as a day dedicated to expressing gratitude and reverence to teachers and gurus.
Celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month (June-July), Guru Purnima not only honors the invaluable role of gurus but also highlights the importance of the teacher-student relationship in our lives.
The Significance of Guru Purnima:
Guru Purnima derives its name from two words:
“Guru,” meaning teacher or mentor, and “Purnima,” signifying the full moon.
This auspicious day is observed as a time to pay homage to teachers, express gratitude, seek their blessings, and engage in activities that foster knowledge, wisdom, and self-discovery.
In Indian culture, the teacher is regarded as a guiding light who dispels the darkness of ignorance and leads the way to enlightenment.
Guru Purnima provides an opportunity for disciples and students to reflect on the impact of their gurus and express heartfelt appreciation for their wisdom, teachings, and guidance.
Traditions and Celebrations:
Guru Purnima is celebrated with great fervor across the country, particularly in educational institutions, ashrams, and spiritual centers :
Guru Puja:
Students and disciples perform special prayers, called “Guru Puja,” to honor their gurus.
This involves offering flowers, incense, and other symbolic items, and seeking blessings for spiritual growth and knowledge.
Guru Dakshina:
It is a long-standing tradition for students to offer “Guru Dakshina” as a token of respect and gratitude to their gurus.
It can take various forms, such as monetary donations, gifts, or acts of service.
Seva (Service):
Many people engage in acts of service on Guru Purnima as a way of expressing gratitude.
This can include volunteering at educational institutions, helping the needy, or participating in community service activities.
