Learn about the origins, importance, calendar, and themes of Guru Purnima.

20/7/2024,

Jainism also commemorates Gautam Swami, Lord Mahavira's first pupil, on Guru Purnima.


On July 21, 2024, people celebrate Guru Purnima, a traditional Hindu and Buddhist event honouring spiritual gurus and counsellors.

During the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July), it is observed on Purnima, the full moon day, to honour the role that gurus (teachers) play in providing wisdom and direction. Observed as a gesture of gratitude and in honour of the author of the Mahabharata, Vyasa, devotees make prayers, rituals, and offerings on this day.
Date of Guru Purnima in 2024
In 2024, Sunday, July 21, will be marked as Guru Purnima. Unlike several other holidays, there is usually no set annual theme for this day. Rather, thanksgiving, reverence, and admiration for spiritual mentors, instructors, and guides are the main themes of the celebration.

The festival is believed to have started as a way to celebrate the great sage Vyasa, who is revered as one of the greatest gurus and sages in ancient Hindu literature and mythology, including the Mahabharata and the Puranas.

Guru Purnima is today a more inclusive festival recognising all mentors, teachers, and spiritual leaders who have generously imparted knowledge and insight to others.

This day is dedicated to prayers, offerings, and ceremonies in remembrance of gurus and their teachings.
An Overview and Interpretation of Guru Purnima 2024
In the traditions of the Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain communities, Guru Purnima is a day of significant significance for honouring spiritual mentors, teachers, and guides.
It is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July). Followers and devotees have to show their sincere appreciation and respect for gurus who have lit their pathways with spiritual knowledge and direction.

Gurus share their knowledge and insights on enlightenment and spiritual wisdom at satsangs and spiritual lectures. Many adherents fast and practise meditation throughout the day in an effort to achieve spiritual cleansing and guidance. Acts of voluntarism and generosity are also widespread.

 

Guru Purnima 2024: Quotes

1. The Guru is the ocean, filling everything to the brim with the waters of knowledge. – Rig Veda

2. Guru and God both appear before me. To whom should I prostrate? I bow before Guru, who introduced God to me. – Kabir

3. A guru is someone who has attained liberation. He is beyond the duality of the world. The grace of the guru is like a boat to cross the ocean of samsara. – Adi Shankaracharya

 

4. On the full moon day of Ashadha, the sage Vyasa was born to Parashara and Satyavati. He divided the Vedas into four parts. – Guru Gita