Festival · July

Guru Purnima

A day of gratitude to teachers and the sage Vyasa.

Guru Purnima honours the guru, the one who dispels the darkness of ignorance, and especially the sage Vyasa, who compiled the Vedas and authored the Mahabharata. Disciples offer reverence to their teachers and renew their commitment to learning. It falls on the full moon of the month of Ashadha.

Why it is kept

The full moon of Ashadha honours Veda Vyasa, who arranged the Vedas and composed the Mahabharata, and with him every teacher who has passed knowledge on.

Step by step

How to observe it

Honour your teacher
Students visit their teachers and spiritual guides, touch their feet, and offer flowers, fruit or a gift.
Vyasa puja
In monasteries and ashrams, Vyasa and the lineage of teachers are worshipped.
Study and reflect
Many spend the day reading scripture and resolving to continue a practice through the monsoon months of Chaturmasa.

Customs differ between regions, communities and families. Where your family or temple has its own way, follow it.

Fasting

Some fast or eat once; it is not required.

Fasts should suit your health. Children, elders, pregnant women and anyone unwell or on medication should eat, or keep a lighter fast; that is the tradition, not an exception to it.