Everything You Need To Know About ‘Guru Purnima’ Festival In India

Guru Purnima, also known as Guru Pornami, is a significant festival in Hinduism, celebrated to honor and show gratitude to teachers and mentors. It falls on the full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Ashadha (June-July) according to the Hindu lunar calendar.

It is observed on the full moon day in the month of Ashadha, which generally falls between June and July. Guru-Shishya Tradition is a festival that highlights the importance of the teacher-student relationship. A “Guru” is a teacher or spiritual guide, and “Shishya” refers to the student or disciple.

Honoring Teachers: It is a day to honor and express gratitude to one’s teachers, mentors, and spiritual guides for their guidance and wisdom.
Religious and Spiritual Importance: For many, it is also an opportunity to offer thanks to God, particularly to Lord Krishna, who is often revered as the ultimate Guru.
Celebrations
Rituals and Offerings: Devotees typically visit temples, perform special prayers, and offer gifts and sweets to their gurus and teachers.
Pujas and Homas: In some regions, special pujas (rituals) and homas (sacrificial fires) are conducted in honor of the Guru.
Learning and Reflection: Many people use this day to reflect on their spiritual journey and seek blessings for further guidance and wisdom.
Regional Observances

In India it is celebrated widely across different regions with varying customs. For instance, in South India, it is marked by special prayers and offerings at temples. In Buddhism Guru Purnima is also celebrated by Buddhists as it marks the day when Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

The day is traditionally associated with Sage Vyasa, a revered sage in Hinduism who is credited with composing the Mahabharata and other sacred texts. In modern times, Guru Purnima is observed not only in religious contexts but also in educational and professional environments as a day to honor teachers and mentors.