Guru Purnima, celebrated on the full moon day of Ashadha (June-July), holds profound significance for Hindus and Jains. This festival is an occasion to express gratitude and reverence towards gurus, who are regarded as the dispellers of darkness and the guides towards enlightenment. The celebration extends beyond India to Nepal and Bhutan.Vyasa Purnima: The legacy of Sage VyasaKnown also as Vyasa Purnima, this day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sage Vyasa, the revered author of the Mahabharata. According to the Hindu calendar, Guru Purnima marks the culmination of various spiritual practices and yogas. This year, the festival falls on July 21, 2024.Historical significanceIn Hindu tradition, Guru Purnima is intricately linked with Sage Vyasa, considered the first guru. Ved Vyasas contributions include the composition of crucial religious texts like the Mahabharata, Vedas, and Puranas. Additionally, on this auspicious day, Lord Krishna chose Sage Sandilya as his guru. It is also believed that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples on this day, further emphasizing its spiritual importance.Observance and ritualsThe observance of Guru Purnima begins with an early morning bath, ideally with water mixed with a little Ganges water. Devotees then light a lamp in their temples and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. A special food offering, bhog, is prepared, incorporating a basil leaf. The day is marked by the consumption of only sattvic (pure) foods. Followers meditate on their gurus, seeking their blessings. As the moon rises, devotees worship the moon and engage in acts of charity, such as donating to the needy and feeding cows.Chanting the Guru Purnima mantraA significant practice on this day is chanting the mantra Om Brim Brihaspataye Namah 108 times. This ritual is believed to strengthen Jupiters position in ones horoscope, bringing peace, prosperity, and happiness.Guru Purnima 2024 is not only a day of spiritual observance but also a time to honour the enduring legacy of those who guide others towards knowledge and enlightenment.
