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Guru Purnima. Teacher’s day, Vyasa Purnima. The names may differ, but the sentiment remains the same. This is a day to wish well for our teachers and guides, who have helped us get a leg up in the game called life!
How is Guru Purnima celebrated in India and neighboring nations? Read on to find out!
What is Guru Purnima?
Guru Purnima (Poornima) is a Karma Yoga-based custom honoring all spiritual and intellectual Gurus who are developed or enlightened individuals willing to give their expertise without expecting anything in return.
Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists all commemorate it as a day of celebration in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. However, due to its informal yet personal nature, it is rarely observed as a public holiday anywhere.
When is Guru Purnima in 2024?
The event takes place on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July). Mahatma Gandhi revived this dying event to honor his spiritual mentor Shrimad Rajchandra. It is also known as Vyasa Purnima, and it commemorates Ved Vyasa’s birthday.
This year, the Guru Purnima is slated to be held on Sunday, July 21, 2024.
How is it usually celebrated?
In ancient times, this event used to be celebrated with recitals, meditations, yoga, and other spiritual events in ashramas, Buddhist temples, and other locations of spiritual and religious importance.
Students will wish their teachers and small, low-key events organized by schools, colleges, and other academic institutions to recognize the hard work put in by academics, scholars, and other intellectuals in disseminating their knowledge for the upcoming generations.
Some will even visit temples and other places of worship to thank the ultimate teacher – Goddess Lakshmi and Vishnu in Hindu mythology, and other religious equivalents for Buddhists and Jains.
