Guru Purnima 2024 Date: Guru Purnima honours gurus, both intellectual and spiritual, who are revered worldwide. Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists commemorate it throughout India, Nepal, and Bhutan. The day is traditionally used to honour selected spiritual figures or instructors. It is observed on the day of the full moon in the month of Ashadh. Since it commemorates the birthday of Veda Vyasa, the sage who penned the Mahabharata, it is also known as Vyasa Purnima. This year, Gur Purnima will be observed on 21st July 2024.
Guru Purnima 2024: Date And Time
- Guru Purnima 2024 Date: 21st July 2024
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 06:00 PM, 20th July 2024
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 03:47 PM, 21st July 2024
Guru Purnima 2024: Significance Of This Pious Day
Hinduism commemorates the birth of Ved Vyasa, the renowned sage who is credited for editing the Vedas and splitting them into four sections. He is also credited with writing the Mahabharata and the Puranas, which are regarded as the "fifth Veda." It is believed that on this day, prayers go straight to the Mahaguru, and his blessings help a disciple escape ignorance and darkness.
Buddhism holds that on this day, after moving from Bodhgaya to Sarnath, Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon, or instruction, to his first five pupils. After that, the group of His disciples became known as the "Sangha."
In Jainism, on this day Lord Mahavira took on the role of 'Guru' for his first student, Gautam Swami. For this reason, people honour Mahavira on this day.
As per the historical accounts of ancient India, farmers hold great significance on this day as they offer prayers to God in gratitude for a plentiful crop the next year.
Guru Purnima is a significant day dedicated to honour Gurus. (Image Source: Freepik)
Guru Purnima 2024: Rituals Associated With This Sacred Day
- For Hindus, Guru Purnima is the day to honour the guru, the person who serves as their life's illumination. Many locales have Vyasa pujas, in which mantras are uttered in remembrance of the 'Guru'. As presents and gestures of respect, devotees present flowers and give "prasad" and "charanamrita." Chants of hymns, devotional songs, and recitals take place throughout the day. In the guru's remembrance, the sacred book of the Gita is recited.
- In order to recommit to their guru's teachings and ideals, people congregate at the location of his seat for "padapuja," or the worship of the sage's sandals, which is organised by disciples in the various asharams.
- On this day, adherents show their support for one another as they travel the path of spirituality. The day is also devoted to the Guru Bhai, or fellow disciple. Disciples reflect on their own spiritual journeys thus far throughout the course of this day. On this day, a lot of people start their spiritual education. We call this procedure 'diksha'.
ALSO READ: Are Stairs In Your Home Positioned Correctly? Here Are 5 Staircase Vastu Tips To Consider
- On this day, Buddhists follow the eight precepts of the Buddha. Buddhist monks are renowned to begin meditation and other austere activities on this day.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)