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Guru Purnima 2025
What is Guru Purnima?
Guru Purnima is celebrated every year on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Aashaadha. Guru Purnima is a festival celebrated in India to honour spiritual or academic teachers, to offer reverence and express gratitude towards them. In the true sense, a guru is the one who guides their disciples properly and inspires them to move forward- The word "Guru" is formed from two syllables — 'Gu' meaning darkness and 'Ru' meaning light. Thus, Guru means a guide who leads from darkness to light. Gurus play a vital role in shaping the lives of all human beings. It is believed that we should maintain a sense of gratitude toward those gurus who have significantly contributed to our learning. The festival of Guru Purnima is celebrated to express devotion and dedication towards the guru.
Guru Purnima 2025 Date
- Date: Thursday, 10 July 2025
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 10 July 2025 at 1:38 A.M
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 11 July 2025 at 2:06 A.M
- Auspicious Time for Worship: From 08:00 A.M to 01:15 P.M
Story of Guru Purnima
According to religious belief, when Vedavyasa was in his childhood, he requested his mother Satyavati and father Parashar to have a vision of the Lord. Since Vedavyasa was very young at that time, his mother denied him permission. However, Vedavyasa was determined. After his repeated requests, his mother finally permitted him to go into the forest for penance, but also told him that if he felt homesick, he could return. Following his mother's instructions, Vedavyasa went to the forest and performed intense penance. Because of this penance, he became proficient in the Sanskrit language and gained great mastery over it. With the help of this knowledge, Vedavyasa composed the Mahabharata, the 18 Puranas, and the Brahma Sutras. He also classified the four Vedas, which is why he is known as Vedavyasa. Due to his intense penance and the grace of God, Vedavyasa attained profound knowledge, and since then, the tradition of worshiping the Guru began.
The festival of Guru Purnima reflects the importance of the guru-disciple relationship and highlights the value of worship and service to an ideal guru for the attainment of knowledge. On this day, in the memory of the guru, worship ceremonies, events, and seminars are organized to honour them. Along with this, students and disciples are inspired to adopt the knowledge taught by the guru and follow their ideals and guidance. Through this festival, people understand the significance of the ideals and knowledge of gurus and are encouraged to implement their teachings in life.
The festival of Guru Purnima reflects the importance of the guru-disciple relationship and highlights the value of worship and service to an ideal guru for the attainment of knowledge. On this day, in the memory of the guru, worship ceremonies, events, and seminars are organized to honour them. Along with this, students and disciples are inspired to adopt the knowledge taught by the guru and follow their ideals and guidance. Through this festival, people understand the significance of the ideals and knowledge of gurus and are encouraged to implement their teachings in life.
Guru Purnima in Sanatan Tradition
In the Sanatan tradition, the Guru is given a position even higher than God. It is said:
Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah।।
On this day, disciples worship their spiritual, academic, or any life-guiding Guru and try to make their life meaningful through their blessings. According to mythological belief, Guru Purnima is considered the birth anniversary of Ved Vyasa Ji, who composed the Mahabharata. Because of his birth anniversary, it is also called Vyasa Purnima. Scriptures state that Vyasa Ji classified the four Vedas, and hence he came to be known as Ved Vyasa. Gurus are revered because they are the source of knowledge, direction, and inspiration. Gurus guide us in life, inspire our thoughts, and instil confidence in our inner self. In the Vedas and scriptures, the Guru is considered even greater than God. That is why it is said:
Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah।।
Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, and Guru is Lord Shankar. Guru is the direct form of the Supreme Brahman. I bow to such a Guru.
Attaining God is not possible without the blessings of the Guru. By the grace of the Guru alone, one can attain salvation.
Kabir Das Ji has emphasized worshiping the Guru before Lord Hari in his couplet:
Guru Govind dou khade, kake lagu paay।
Balihari Guru aapne, Govind diyo batay।।
Meaning, if both Guru and Govind (God) are standing together, whom should one bow to first—the Guru or Govind?
He answers in the next line that in such a situation, one should bow at the feet of the Guru, because it is through the Guru's knowledge that one gets the fortune of seeing Govind.
Guru bin gyaan na upjai, Guru bin milai na mosh।
Guru bin lakhai na satya ko, Guru bin mitai na dosh।।
In this couplet, Kabir Das Ji tells the masses that without the Guru, attaining knowledge is not possible.
Until one receives the Guru's grace, they continue to wander in the darkness of ignorance, bound by worldly attachments, i.e., they cannot attain salvation.
Without the Guru, one cannot distinguish between truth and falsehood, nor can they gain knowledge of right and wrong.
Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah।।
On this day, disciples worship their spiritual, academic, or any life-guiding Guru and try to make their life meaningful through their blessings. According to mythological belief, Guru Purnima is considered the birth anniversary of Ved Vyasa Ji, who composed the Mahabharata. Because of his birth anniversary, it is also called Vyasa Purnima. Scriptures state that Vyasa Ji classified the four Vedas, and hence he came to be known as Ved Vyasa. Gurus are revered because they are the source of knowledge, direction, and inspiration. Gurus guide us in life, inspire our thoughts, and instil confidence in our inner self. In the Vedas and scriptures, the Guru is considered even greater than God. That is why it is said:
Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah।।
Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, and Guru is Lord Shankar. Guru is the direct form of the Supreme Brahman. I bow to such a Guru.
Attaining God is not possible without the blessings of the Guru. By the grace of the Guru alone, one can attain salvation.
Kabir Das Ji has emphasized worshiping the Guru before Lord Hari in his couplet:
Guru Govind dou khade, kake lagu paay।
Balihari Guru aapne, Govind diyo batay।।
Meaning, if both Guru and Govind (God) are standing together, whom should one bow to first—the Guru or Govind?
He answers in the next line that in such a situation, one should bow at the feet of the Guru, because it is through the Guru's knowledge that one gets the fortune of seeing Govind.
Guru bin gyaan na upjai, Guru bin milai na mosh।
Guru bin lakhai na satya ko, Guru bin mitai na dosh।।
In this couplet, Kabir Das Ji tells the masses that without the Guru, attaining knowledge is not possible.
Until one receives the Guru's grace, they continue to wander in the darkness of ignorance, bound by worldly attachments, i.e., they cannot attain salvation.
Without the Guru, one cannot distinguish between truth and falsehood, nor can they gain knowledge of right and wrong.
Guru Purnima in Buddhism
Guru Purnima also holds special significance in Buddhism. It is believed that on this very day, Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath. The beginning of the Dhammachakkra Pravartan (Turning of the Wheel of Dharma) for his first five disciples is considered to have started from this day.
Guru Purnima 2025: Benefits
- Self-Realization: By worshipping the Guru on the day of Guru Purnima, we receive their blessings, and through the grace of the Guru, the soul is awakened. This leads not only to the acquisition of external knowledge but also to the awakening of inner consciousness. Receiving knowledge from the Guru on this day is especially fruitful, which sharpens our intellect and enhances our understanding.
- Mental Balance and Relief from Stress: On the day of Guru Purnima, one should listen to the teachings of the Guru. The Guru's teachings bring stability to the mind, which reduces stress and makes us mentally strong.
- Path to Salvation: Through the observance of fasting, charity, and service on Guru Purnima, our actions become pure, which ultimately leads to liberation (moksha).
Guru Purnima 2025: Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
- Morning Bath and Purity
- Wake up before sunrise.
- Bathe using Ganga water or clean water.
- Wear clean, light or yellow-coloured clothes.
- Preparation of the Worship Area
- Choose a calm and sacred place in the house.
- Place a red or yellow cloth on a small platform and install a picture, idol, or sacred footwear (paduka) of the Guru on it.
- Collect Puja Materials
- Flowers (yellow/white), rice (Akshat), sandalwood paste, vermilion (Kumkum)
- Lamp (diya), incense sticks, camphor
- Sweets or fruits (as offering)
- A vessel filled with water (or Ganga water)
- Clothes/Dakshina (if the Guru is physically present)
- Invocation of the Guru (Mentally)
- Meditate upon your Guru.
- Mentally invite them and express your gratitude.
- Offering of Holy Water
- Offer Ganga water or clean water at the feet of the Guru.
- If an idol is present, touch the feet. If not, offer mentally.
- Lighting of Incense and Lamp
- First light the lamp, then the incense.
- Move the lamp in a circular motion three times in front of the Guru's image or feet.
- Offering of Naivedya
- Place fresh fruits, sweets, or kheer on a plate and offer them to the Guru.
- Remain silent while making the offering.
- Chanting of Guru Mantra
- Chant the following verse:
- Om Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah॥ - Chant at least 11 times, ideally 108 times.
- Guru Aarti
- Perform aarti for the Guru.
- Sing "Jai Guru Dev" or any devotional song with faith.
- Prayer for Forgiveness and Surrender
- Ask for forgiveness for any known or unknown mistakes.
- Resolve to live your life guided by the Guru's teachings.
Guru Purnima 2025: Mantra Chanting
- "Om Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwarah।
Guru Sakshat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah॥" - "Om Aim Hreem Shreem Gurave Namah" – Chant this bija mantra.
Guru Purnima 2025: Importance
Guru Purnima is celebrated by disciples to pay respect and express gratitude to their spiritual gurus and academic teachers. Gurus are the pillars of light who illuminate the lives of their disciples with knowledge, guidance, and inspiration. All gurus dedicate their entire lives for the welfare of their disciples.
Spiritual gurus have always helped the suffering and orphaned people of the world. History has many examples where gurus ended the sufferings of many distressed people through their knowledge and experience. Great gurus like Swami Vivekananda and Guru Nanak have always worked for the welfare of humanity. They not only provided spiritual guidance but also played an important role in social reform.
Guru Purnima is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence not only in India but also in countries like Bhutan and Nepal. India's rich guru-disciple tradition gradually spread to these countries and left a deep impact there as well. This tradition mainly spread due to the travels of spiritual gurus who expanded their knowledge in various fields.
Spiritual gurus have always helped the suffering and orphaned people of the world. History has many examples where gurus ended the sufferings of many distressed people through their knowledge and experience. Great gurus like Swami Vivekananda and Guru Nanak have always worked for the welfare of humanity. They not only provided spiritual guidance but also played an important role in social reform.
Guru Purnima is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence not only in India but also in countries like Bhutan and Nepal. India's rich guru-disciple tradition gradually spread to these countries and left a deep impact there as well. This tradition mainly spread due to the travels of spiritual gurus who expanded their knowledge in various fields.
Cultural Importance of Guru Purnima
In Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain religions, gurus hold a very important position. In these cultures, many academic and spiritual gurus are considered equivalent to God. For example, Swami Abhedananda, Adi Shankaracharya, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu are famous Hindu gurus who served the spiritual world and the public.
While spiritual gurus provide society with salvation and spiritual knowledge, academic gurus impart knowledge and education. To show respect and gratitude to all these gurus, the holy festival of Guru Purnima is celebrated every year.
Guru Purnima is not just a religious event but an occasion to express the depth, respect, and gratitude of the guru-disciple relationship, which lights the lamp of knowledge and love in life.
While spiritual gurus provide society with salvation and spiritual knowledge, academic gurus impart knowledge and education. To show respect and gratitude to all these gurus, the holy festival of Guru Purnima is celebrated every year.
Guru Purnima is not just a religious event but an occasion to express the depth, respect, and gratitude of the guru-disciple relationship, which lights the lamp of knowledge and love in life.
Guru Purnima 2025: Importance and Purpose
Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the Aashaadha month. On this day, Maharishi Ved Vyasa was born. According to religious belief, Ved Vyasa composed the Vedas and Puranas, and for this reason, he is considered the Adi Guru (the first guru). On Guru Purnima, all individuals worship their respective gurus along with Maharishi Ved Vyasa and Lord Vishnu and observe a fast.
It is believed that by fasting and worshipping with devotion on this day, the devotee receives the blessings of the Lord, and their life becomes prosperous. At the same time, this festival is a celebration of the guru-disciple tradition, which represents the preservation and continuous transmission of knowledge in the Indian knowledge system. It also holds special importance in the academic world, where teachers, researchers, and trainers play the role of gurus, spreading the light of knowledge and experience.
It is believed that by fasting and worshipping with devotion on this day, the devotee receives the blessings of the Lord, and their life becomes prosperous. At the same time, this festival is a celebration of the guru-disciple tradition, which represents the preservation and continuous transmission of knowledge in the Indian knowledge system. It also holds special importance in the academic world, where teachers, researchers, and trainers play the role of gurus, spreading the light of knowledge and experience.
Purpose of Guru Purnima
- Strengthening the Guru-Disciple Relationship: The main purpose of Guru Purnima is to further strengthen this divine relationship so that the flow of knowledge does not stop and the tradition of values continues.
- Promoting Knowledge and Education: This day is an opportunity that inspires society to understand and respect teachers, scholars, and the value of knowledge.
- Inspiring Spiritual Awakening: Guru Purnima motivates people to connect with their soul and progress on the spiritual path.
- A Day to Express Respect and Gratitude: On this day, by showing respect, service, and gratitude to the guru, we acknowledge that their contribution is the foundation of our life.
- Inspiration for Continuous Pursuit of Knowledge: Guru Purnima teaches us that there is no age limit for learning. It strengthens the spirit of lifelong learning and maintaining curiosity.
Guru Purnima 2025: Rituals / Traditions
Guru is the true lamp that removes the darkness of ignorance and spreads the light of knowledge. Guru Purnima is a great opportunity to express reverence, dedication, and gratitude to those divine powers who have guided our lives. If rituals are performed on this day with faith and according to tradition, miraculous changes in life are possible.
- Guru Worship: On this day, worship your spiritual or worldly guru. Offer flowers, sandalwood, clothes, and fruits at their feet. If you can meet them in person, touch their feet and seek blessings; if not, respectfully bow before their picture.
- Vyasa Worship: Maharshi Ved Vyasa is considered the founder of the guru tradition. He composed the Vedas. On this day, worship him and pay respect to the guru tradition.
- Chanting Guru Mantras: Chant the mantra given by your guru at least 108 times on this day. If no specific mantra is given, chant the following simple and powerful guru mantras:
- "Om Gurave Namah"
- "Om Shri Gurubhyo Namah"
- "Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu Guru Devo Maheshwarah..."
- Reading Guru Gita: The "Guru Gita" contains a detailed description of the glory of the guru through the dialogue of Shiva and Parvati. Reading it helps the soul deeply surrender to the guru and elevates spiritual practice to a new level.
- Meditation and Self-study: Guru Purnima is a day for self-reflection and self-development. Sit in solitude and immerse yourself in the guru's teachings, mantras, knowledge, and self-contemplation. Dedicate yourself to your goals, faults, and improvement.
- Donation: Feed deserving Brahmins or spiritual practitioners, give clothes, and offer Dakshina as much as possible. This donation is considered the highest form of serving the guru.
- Listening to Satsang, Story, or Discourse: Participate in Satsang with a saint, teacher, or guru, or listen to their discourse on this day. If not possible, listen to online Satsang or old teachings.
- Taking Initiation or Making a Vow: If you wish to take refuge under a guru or start any spiritual practice, this day is especially auspicious. Vows taken on Guru Purnima are highly fruitful.
- Donating Food, Clothes, and Service: Providing food, clothes, books, or resources to someone in need can also be a means of receiving the guru's blessings.
- Guru Vandana and Prayer for Guru's Blessings: Pray from your heart to the guru: "O Gurudev! Illuminate my life with true knowledge, lead me on the path of truth, service, and spiritual practice."
FAQ
Why is Guru Purnima also called Vyasa Purnima?
Guru Purnima is called Vyasa Purnima because this day is considered the birthday of Maharshi Ved Vyasa. Ved Vyasa classified the Vedas and composed great scriptures like the Mahabharata, 18 Puranas, and Brahmastra. For this reason, on Guru Purnima, he is also worshipped and honoured. Hence, this day is also called Vyasa Purnima.
Which deity is worshipped on Guru Purnima?
On Guru Purnima, Guru Dev is worshipped. In Hinduism, the guru is considered superior even to the gods, and therefore, the guru is equated with Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara. On this day, Maharshi Ved Vyasa is especially worshipped because it is his birthday. Apart from this, disciples and seekers celebrate this festival to worship, honour, and receive blessings from their spiritual guru or life guide.
Why are gurus important in a student's life?
Gurus are important in a student's life because:
- Source of knowledge – Gurus provide students with the right path of learning and knowledge, which becomes the foundation for their bright future.
- Guidance – They not only teach academic subjects but also show the right path in life, enabling the student to make correct decisions.
- Inspiration and support – Gurus motivate students to move forward and face difficulties.
- Teach determination and discipline – Through a guru's discipline, students develop good habits and a strong work ethic.
- Boost confidence – With the care and trust of a guru, students gain self-confidence and positive thinking.
Therefore, gurus are the guiding light in a student's life, playing a crucial role in their overall development.
Are Buddha Purnima and Guru Purnima the same?
No, Buddha Purnima and Guru Purnima are not the same; they are two different festivals:
- Buddha Purnima: This day marks the birth, enlightenment, and liberation of Lord Buddha. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha. The main purpose is to remember the life and teachings of Buddha.
- Guru Purnima: This is celebrated on the full moon day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Aashaadha. Its main purpose is to honour and express gratitude to one's gurus, whether spiritual or academic. This day is also considered the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa.
In summary, Buddha Purnima is related to Lord Buddha, while Guru Purnima is dedicated to the guru-disciple relationship and the importance of knowledge.
How is Guru Purnima celebrated?
The main ways to celebrate Guru Purnima are as follows:
- Morning Bath and Purity
- Wake up during Brahma Muhurta and take a bath with Ganga water or pure water.
- Wear clean, light-coloured or yellow clothes.
- Preparation of the Worship Place
- Install the picture, statue, or sandals (Paduka) of the Guru at a quiet and sacred place in the house.
- Spread a red or yellow cloth as a seat for the worship.
- Collecting Worship Materials
- Collect flowers, uncooked rice (Akshat), sandalwood, Kumkum, lamp, incense, camphor, sweets or fruits, water, etc.
- Invocation of the Guru and Worship with Devotion
- Meditate on the Guru and invite him mentally.
- Offer water at the feet of the Guru.
- Light the lamp and incense and perform the Guru's Aarti.
- Chant the Guru mantra, such as "Om Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu Guru Devo Maheshwarah..."
- Donation and Service
- Giving charity on this day is considered auspicious, such as giving yellow clothes, religious books, fruits, sweets to those in need.
- Serve the Guru and express feelings of devotion towards him.
- Expressing Gratitude to the Guru
- Thank the Guru and resolve to follow his teachings in life.
- Other Rituals
- Some people observe fasts.
- Discourses, bhajans, kirtans, and Satsang's are held in temples or ashrams.
- Meditation and spiritual practice are performed.
Thus, Guru Purnima is a festival to strengthen the guru-disciple relationship and understand the importance of knowledge with devotion and reverence.
Is fasting observed on Guru Purnima?
Yes, many people observe fasting on Guru Purnima. It is a religious and spiritual practice through which a person purifies their mind and body and expresses the desire to receive the Guru's blessings.
Typically, fasting on Guru Purnima is as follows:
- Some people fast the whole day without water (nirjal fast).
- Many people fast by consuming only fruits and milk.
- Some people eat light meals and worship the Guru with full devotion.
The purpose of fasting is to strengthen meditation and spiritual practice, show respect and devotion to the Guru, and progress on the spiritual path.
However, if physical health is not good, it is better not to fast. The importance of Guru Purnima lies not in fasting but in the devotion and gratitude towards the Guru.
Is Guru Purnima celebrated outside India as well?
Yes, Guru Purnima is celebrated with devotion and reverence outside India as well. In countries like Australia, Canada, the USA, and the UK, Indians and Buddhist communities remember and worship their Gurus on this day. Many spiritual organizations also hold devotional programs, Satsang's, and lectures on this occasion.
In these places, people from Indian and other cultures celebrate the festival of Guru Purnima according to their traditions. The Guru-disciple relationship is respected, the Guru is worshipped, and their teachings are remembered.
Message of Guru Purnima 2025:
- Light the lamp of knowledge: Guru Purnima is the day to embrace the light of knowledge and dispel the darkness of ignorance. Gurus inspire us to walk on the right path in life.
- Move towards spiritual progress: This day is for taking steps towards spiritual growth through self-reflection, practice, and meditation.
- Respect the Guru-Disciple tradition: Guru Purnima provides an opportunity to keep the Guru-disciple tradition alive and honour it.
- Express gratitude: By expressing gratitude to the Guru, we honour their contribution and attain success in life through their blessings.
The message of Guru Purnima 2025 inspires us about the importance of knowledge in life, faith in the Guru, and the path of spiritual progress. This day gives us an opportunity to honour the Guru's contribution in our lives and make life successful with their blessings.
What should we do on Guru Purnima 2025?
On Guru Purnima 2025, we should perform the following activities so that this sacred day becomes truly successful and meaningful:
- Worship the Guru and express gratitude: Worship your guru, teacher, or anyone who has imparted knowledge in your life and sincerely express your gratitude.
- Bow at the feet of the Guru: Bow at the feet of the Guru to receive their grace and blessings.
- Meditate and practice: Engage in self-reflection, meditate, and experience knowledge and peace within yourself on this day.
- Take new resolutions for acquiring knowledge: On the occasion of Guru Purnima, take new resolutions for study, learning, and gaining knowledge.
- Respect the Guru-Disciple tradition: Make efforts to spread the teachings received from the Guru to others and keep the Guru-disciple tradition alive.
Thus, by doing these activities on Guru Purnima 2025, we can express our respect and reverence towards the Guru and move towards spiritual growth.
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