BhaktiLoopGuru Purnima Vrat
A day dedicated to honoring and expressing gratitude to one's spiritual and academic teachers (Gurus). It celebrates the birth anniversary of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, who compiled the Vedas.
Key Rituals & Practices
Guru Puja (worship of gurus), including washing their feet and offering garlands, sweets, and gifts.
Vyasa Puja (special worship for Maharishi Ved Vyasa).
Offering dakshina (donations) to gurus as a mark of respect.
Visiting temples, ashrams, and spiritual centers.
Satsang (spiritual discourse, chanting, and meditation).
Reading sacred scriptures, especially those compiled by Ved Vyasa.
Observing a fast (vrat) to show devotion and purify the body and mind.
Seeking blessings from elders, teachers, and parents.
Initiation ceremonies (diksha) by some gurus for new disciples.
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Ashadha
Paksha
Shukla Paksha (Bright Fortnight)
Tithi
Purnima (Full Moon)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
Guru Purnima is traditionally celebrated as the birthday of Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the ancient sage who authored the Mahabharata, compiled the Puranas, and categorized the Vedas into four parts. He is revered as the Adi Guru (first Guru) in many traditions. It is also believed that on this day, Lord Shiva became the Adi Guru to the Saptarishis (Seven Sages), transmitting yoga knowledge. For Buddhists, it marks the day Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath after attaining enlightenment. The day signifies the profound importance of the Guru-Shishya (teacher-disciple) tradition in Hinduism, where the Guru is seen as the remover of darkness and ignorance.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies annually (typically July)