Guru Purnima

Religious holiday falling on the full
moon (purnima) in the lunar month of
Ashadh (June–July). Guru Purnima is a
day of respect and reverence to one’s
guru, a word that has historically indicated a religious preceptor, but is used
now for any teacher, adviser, or mentor.
In the dharma literature, a young man
is to spend his adolescence as a member
of his guru’s household, receiving room,
board, and instruction. In return he renders to his guru obedience and loyalty.
On Guru Purnima, a guru’s students are
directed to enshrine and worship their
guru as a deity, giving their guru gifts
and fees, according to their means.
Modern Hindus celebrate this day in
various ways, depending on the type of
guru they have. Although some religious
preceptors are enshrined and worshiped, this practice is not always performed. However, modern Hindus still
celebrate this day by paying particular
honor and homage to their teachers.
This day falls on the full moon, which is
associated with completion and perfection—the same qualities that gurus are
considered to have. This day is also
known as Vyas Purnima, since the sage
Vyasa was renowned as a great guru.