Guru Purnima: Celebrating Gurus and Divine Wisdom

Introduction:

In the realm of spiritual enlightenment, there exists a sacred day known as Guru Purnima—a reverential celebration, an occasion to express gratitude to the guardians of enlightenment who guide us toward the light of wisdom. Our gurus, our teachers, not only impart wisdom but also ensure that the radiance of understanding reaches our souls, illuminating our journey through life.

But who exactly is a Guru? While we encounter countless teachers who bless us with knowledge, the role of a Guru carries immense responsibility. They are the ones who ensure their disciples can walk the path of righteousness, fulfilling their higher purpose. In a world where everyone seeks guidance to navigate life's complexities, it is essential to note that the Guru finds their disciples (shishyaas). Instead of tirelessly searching for a Guru, one should open their heart and mind, allowing the Guru to find them, for it is a divine connection that transcends time and space.

This article will not only be a dedication to the Gurus worldwide but will also be a self-reflection of the growth I have experienced with the guidance of my Gurus’ presence in my life.

Meaning of Guru Purnima:

If we split the term “Guru”, then ‘Gu’ means ‘darkness or ignorance’ and ‘Ru’ means ‘elimination or removal.’ Hence, this particular day is dedicated to those who remove darkness from our lives and lead us to paths of righteousness, i.e. our Gurus.

Overall, it is a day/festival dedicated to celebrating or showering gratitude to our Gurus, Teachers who are torch bearers of knowledge, who not only impart gyaana but ensures that the light of wisdom reaches us.

It is a time to honor and acknowledge the significant role that Gurus play in guiding and inspiring their students. Every year, we commemorate this great festival of “Guru Purnima” on the full moon day, i.e. Purnima, of the Ashadha month as per the Hindu Calendar. According to the Gregorian Calendar, it occurs in the month of either July or August. This year, “Guru Purnima” is on the 21st July ‘24.

As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Guru Purnima” in the year ‘24 is as follows:

Guru Purnima on Sunday, 21st July ‘24

• Purnima Tithi Begins - 05:59 PM on 20th July ‘24
• Purnima Tithi Ends - 03:46 PM on 21st July ‘24

Importance of “Guru Purnima” as per Different Religions:

This occasion of “Guru Purnima”, dedicated to the Gurus/ teachers, is also known as “Vyasa Purnima.” It is believed that the great sage and Guru Veda Vyasa was born on the same day as “Guru Purnima”, hence we celebrate this occasion as his birth anniversary. Veda Vyasa was the author of the great Hindu epic, Mahabharata. He has also divided the Vedas (recited by Lord Brahma) into four and has written the ‘Puranas’ (also called the ‘fifth Veda’). Rishi Veda Vyasa is revered as one of the ‘Maha Gurus’ in Hindu Dharma. Many people believe that on “Guru Purnima”, the prayers reach the Maha Guru directly and he blesses his Shishyas with bliss and removes darkness from their lives.

This day is important from the perspective of Buddhism as well. After migrating from Bodhgaya to Sarnath, Gautam Buddha delivered his first sermon to his first five disciples on the same day of “Guru Purnima.”

According to Jainism, “Guru Purnima” was the day when Lord Mahavira became the ‘Guru’ to his first disciple Gautam Swami. Hence, on this day, the followers of Jainism worship Lord Mahavira.

Astrological Significance of “Guru Purnima”:

Guru Purnima holds profound spiritual significance in Vedic tradition, celebrated as a day to honor and revere the Gurus who impart wisdom and guide individuals on the path of enlightenment. According to Vedic Astrology, Jupiter (Brihaspati) is revered as the Guru – the divine teacher and signifier of higher education, spiritual wisdom, and ideals. This celestial connection underscores the day’s importance, as worshiping Lord Brihaspati (Jupiter) on Guru Purnima is believed to enhance one’s spiritual growth and understanding. By aligning oneself with the benevolent energies of Jupiter, devotees seek to cultivate knowledge, wisdom, and moral integrity, embodying the virtues taught by their Gurus.

The celebration of Guru Purnima is not merely a ritualistic observance but a deeply spiritual practice that reaffirms the Guru’s pivotal role in an individual’s spiritual journey. This day is an opportunity for devotees to express their gratitude and devotion to their Gurus, who illuminate their paths with knowledge and spiritual insight. It is also a time for introspection and self-improvement, as individuals reflect on the teachings of their Gurus and strive to embody those lessons in their daily lives. By participating in this sacred observance, one acknowledges the Guru’s influence in dispelling ignorance and leading the disciple toward spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

Rituals and Observances of “Guru Purnima”:

On this festival, people follow the following traditional rituals:

• The most important ritual of “Guru Purnima” is to pay respect and reverence to one’s Gurus who have been the ‘guiding light’ in one’s life.
• At many places, people worship Rishi Veda Vyasa as ‘Maha Guru.’ The devotees offer flowers and sweets as ‘prasad’ to Maha Guru and then distribute Charnamrit.
• Many people also recite the holy text of Guru Gita on this day.
• On this day, the devotees also worship Guru Dattatreya, Guru’s Guru.
• ‘Pada Puja’, i.e. worshipping the divine feet of Gurus is also a very important practice on “Guru Purnima.”
• Many people are involved in giving spiritual lessons on this day to others and guide them on the right paths. This is called ‘Diksha.’
• The followers of Buddhism observe the eight teachings of Buddha on this day. This practice is known as ‘Uposatha.’
• Buddhist monks start their meditations from this day.

Guru-Shishya Relationship in Indian Cultures:

There’s a very beautiful couplet (Doha) by Saint Kabir that says:

“Guru gōbinda dō’u khaḍē kākē lāgūm̐ pāya…

…balihārī guru āpanē gōbinda diyō batāya.”

It literally means that ‘if I have both God and my Guru in front of me, I would bow down to my Guru first as he was the one who showed me the path to God.’

This clearly mentions the utmost significance of ‘Gurus’ in our Indian culture. The Guru-Shishya (Teacher-Student) parampara is a cornerstone of Indian culture, deeply rooted in ancient traditions and spiritual teachings. This bond goes beyond mere instruction it is a sacred connection where the Guru (teacher) imparts not only knowledge but also wisdom and moral guidance to the Shishya (student). Historically, this relationship was formalized through ceremonies like the Upanayana, where children used to wear a sacred thread and were sent to Gurukuls or Ashrams for holistic education. In these learning centers, the Guru played a pivotal role in shaping the character and intellect of the students, guiding them on a righteous path and preparing them for life’s challenges.

Parents are revered as the first Gurus in one's life, emphasizing the cultural belief that learning begins at home. As children grow and enter formal education, the Guru takes over this role, continuing the process of intellectual and spiritual growth. The respect for the Guru is deeply ingrained, with students often offering gifts and tokens of gratitude upon completing their education. This tradition, symbolizing appreciation and reverence, continues to be observed during Guru Purnima, a day dedicated to honoring and seeking blessings from teachers. This enduring relationship exemplifies the profound respect for knowledge and the pivotal role of the Guru in guiding and nurturing the potential of every individual in Indian society.

Who is a Guru:

In our culture, we come across various teachers who impart knowledge and blessings to us. However, a Guru holds a tremendous responsibility.

A Guru is someone who ensures that their shishyaas (students) can walk the path of dharma (righteousness) and follow their higher purpose. They guide and support their students toward spiritual and intellectual growth.

In the present day, everyone seeks a Guru they can seek guidance from to live an easier life. However, what we fail to realize is that it is the Guru that chooses us. So, it's crucial that you don’t seek or run to places to get a new guru each time or seek Diksha. Instead, surrender yourself and open your heart and mind so an enlightened Guru graces your life with their presence.

In short, let the universe take charge and allow your Guru to reach you.

A valuable piece of advice based on my personal experience:

As a shishya, it is vital to have a strong mind and a solid will to grasp the teachings imparted by your Guru. Instead of running to various places searching for a Guru, it is advisable to let your Guru find you. In the meantime, prepare yourself through practices such as meditation, chanting, practicing Mauna (silence), or even practicing abstinence to keep your thoughts pure and stay grounded as much as possible.

Gurus Revered in Hinduism

In Hinduism, we pay respect to many significant Gurus including Lord Dattatreya, revered as the incarnation of the Trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Saints such as Shreepada Shreevallabha, Narasimha Saraswati, Swami Samartha, and Shirdi Sai Baba are considered incarnations of Dattatreya, guiding devotees through their teachings and miracles. Shirdi Sai Baba, in particular, is renowned for his universal messages of faith and patience, attracting followers across religious boundaries. Gajanan Maharaj, another contemporary saint, is celebrated for his spiritual prowess and miracles.

In addition to these stalwarts, we revere many other Gurus such as Adi Shankara, Sri Ramanuja Acharya, and Sri Madhvacharya, each contributing immensely to the spiritual and philosophical landscape of India. Adi Shankara, known for his advaita (non-dualism) philosophy, revitalized Hinduism through his teachings and commentaries on the Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, and the Bhagavad Gita. Sri Ramanuja Acharya, a proponent of Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism), emphasized devotion to Lord Vishnu and laid the foundations for the Bhakti movement. Sri Madhvacharya, who established the Dvaita (dualism) philosophy, highlighted the eternal distinction between the individual soul and the Supreme Being.

All these Gurus, through their profound wisdom and selfless service, continue to inspire and lead countless individuals on the path of righteousness and spiritual enlightenment.

How I met my Jyotish Guruji: Shri Bhalchandra Vishnu Ganpule

In 2015, my mother advised me to enter the field of Vedic Astrology i.e. Jyotish. Since then, I have been searching for a teacher to teach me this divine science. I met my Guruji in early 2016. It was a process where my Guruji would test my consistency and keenness to learn Jyotish.

For almost 3-4 months, I visited Guruji around four times a week, eagerly waiting for the lessons to begin. One day, my Guruji was confident that I would be able to dedicate myself to this divine subject and keep up with the teachings. His teachings were like pearls of wisdom, nurturing me with knowledge just as a mother feeds her baby.

Step by step, he guided me, teaching me how to absorb and savor the essence of knowledge. All my knowledge comes from my Guruji.

I humbly surrender and offer countless salutations to him, expressing my profound gratitude for making me a better person.

Here’s to the Ultimate Guru, who is the torch bearer of my life – Sadguru Shri Shankar Baba:

Shankar Maharaj is the ultimate source of light and divinity in my life. Whenever I encounter a dilemma or amid issues, I close my eyes and call upon Maharaj to guide me. He listens, and the solutions find their way to me. Although he has taken Samadhi, as a devotee, I feel his presence around me.

Despite being Samaadhista, if you are his bhakt, you will find baba around you.

If you want to understand more about Shankar Baba, then with feelings of utmost devotion, you may read an article dedicated to My Sadguru Shri Shankar Baba: https://www.ekohumm.com/article/sadguru-shri-shankar-maharaj.

Final Words

Before concluding this article, I would like to express my gratitude to all my school, college, and higher studies teachers. I thank my Jyotish Gurus Shri Sanjay Rath Guruji, Late Shri A.V. Sundaram Sir, and Shri P R Selvaganesh Sir for blessing me with their divine knowledge. I am also grateful to my Jyotish friends who have contributed to expanding my horizons of learning.

I offer my heartfelt gratitude to my mother, Smt. Kalpna Joshi (Pooja Shashikant Daithankar), for laying a solid foundation by instilling values and principles that make me always strive for improvement. I am grateful to my father, Shri Shashikant N Daithankar, for teaching me equality and helping me develop an unwavering attitude.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the person who guided me to look inward during a transformational phase in my life. My coaching journey, psychology studies, and understanding of human behavior are solely dedicated to my rock-solid support, coach, lifelong Guru, and biggest blessing in disguise—my brother, Dr. Paras.

|| Om Guruve Namah ||

|| Jai Shankar Baba ||