Devotees nationwide honour their mentors this sacred full moon

Millions of devotees observe Guru Purnima today, July 29, honouring the teachers and spiritual guides who lead them from ignorance to light. Falling on the full moon of the Hindu month of Ashadha, this sacred festival unites Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains in a shared expression of deep gratitude. Ancient Indian ashrams required disciples to reflect on their academic and spiritual progress on this specific day before the heavy monsoon rains halted travel. In modern Odisha, followers gather at local temples and spiritual centers, mirroring the nationwide spirit of reverence and community chanting.

Shared Heritage across Beliefs

Followers of Hinduism celebrate this day as Vyasa Purnima to mark the birth of Maharishi Veda Vyasa. He holds deep respect for authoring the epic Mahabharata, composing the Puranas, and compiling the four Vedas. In yogic culture, this specific full moon remembers Lord Shiva transforming into the Adi Guru. He used this day to teach the ancient sciences of yoga to his first seven disciples, known as the Saptarishis.

Buddhists observe the occasion to honour Lord Buddha, who delivered his first sermon at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh to turn the wheel of Dhamma. Similarly, Jains recognize it as the exact day Lord Mahavira initiated his first primary disciple, Gautam Swami, into his fold.

Traditional observances include taking holy baths in sacred rivers like the Saryu in Ayodhya and the waters of Prayagraj. Students visit temples and ashrams to perform Guru Puja, offering flowers, sweets, and ceremonial clothes as Dakshina to their masters. Many individuals consume pure vegetarian, Sattvic food and perform selfless charity to cleanse their egos. Modern celebrations expand well beyond religious borders. Students and professionals send messages of thanks to school teachers, college professors, career coaches, and parents, recognizing them as their first true guides in life.