Marked as one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar, Guru Purnima is a festival dedicated to honouring teachers, spiritual masters, parents, mentors and anyone who has guided us in life. The word ‘Guru’ means the one who removes darkness (ignorance) and leads us towards knowledge (light), as ‘Purnima’ refers to the Full Moon day. Commemorating the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the renowned sage who compiled the Vedas and authored the Mahabharata, the day is also celebrated as Vyasa Purnima. In yogic traditions, Guru Purnima is also associated with Lord Shiva, who is believed to have become the Adiyogi – the First Yogi from whom the yogic sciences originated.
As Guru Purnima is being observed today, devotees are to begin the day with prayers, gratitude and spiritual practices. In accordance with Hindu tradition, the day should ideally start with an early-morning bath, followed by offering prayers to your Guru, parents, teachers, or family elders. Many devotees also visit temples dedicated to Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu, while others perform Guru Puja at home by lighting a ghee lamp, offering flowers and chanting the Guru Mantra.
If you are unable to meet your Guru in person, simply calling or sending a heartfelt message to your teacher or mentor is considered an act of gratitude. Charity is also regarded as highly auspicious on Guru Purnima. Donating books, food, clothes or educational materials is believed to bring the blessings of Guru (Jupiter) and promote wisdom, prosperity and spiritual progress. With the Purnima Tithi remaining valid until 8:05 PM today, devotees have sufficient time throughout the day to complete their worship and participate in satsangs, bhajans, meditation or scriptural reading.
Guru Purnima is celebrated as a reminder that knowledge is life’s greatest wealth. The festival honours every individual who helps shape our lives through wisdom, guidance and values. It is believed that sincere prayers offered on Guru Purnima strengthen wisdom, improve decision-making, remove ignorance and inspire positive growth in both personal and spiritual life.
Guru Purnima 2026 Puja Guide
- Begin the Day with a Holy Bath
- Clean the Puja Area
- Light a Diya
- Offer flowers and fruits
- Chant prayers
- Seek blessings
- Donate and perform charity
- Spend time in reflection
Guru Purnima is more than a festival; it serves as a heartfelt reminder to honour those who illuminate our lives with wisdom and guidance. Whether you visit your Guru, perform a simple puja at home or simply express gratitude to your teachers and parents, the significance of the day lies in humility, learning and respect.
Source: Isha Foundation
