Guru Purnima 2024: Know date, timings, history, rituals, puja vidhi, significance and other details

The full moon day of Ashadha month is known as Guru Purnima or Vyasa Purnima. Traditionally, this day is dedicated to Guru Puja or Guru Worship. On this day, disciples do Puja or pay respects to their Gurus. The term guru refers to a spiritual mentor who enlightens pupils with his expertise and teachings.

Why is Guru Purnima also called Vyasa Purnima?

The day is observed as the birth anniversary of Veda Vyasa who was both the author and a character in the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Guru Purnima 2024: Date

This year, Guru Purnima is falling on July 21, Sunday. It will begin at 5.57 AM on July 21 and will end on 7.09 PM on the same day.

However, the Purnima tithi timings are from 6 PM on July 20 to 3.47 PM on July 21.

Guru Purnima 2024: History

According to Buddhist legend, Gautama Buddha delivered his first speech to his first five followers on this day, resulting in the formation of his ''sangha,'' or community of disciples.

According to Jain tradition, this day is observed to honour Lord Mahavira, who became the Guru of Gautam Swami, his first student, on this day.

Guru Purnima 2024: Rituals

Hindus chant Mantras to honour the Maha Guru and seek his blessings. Devotional songs and hymns are recited all day. The Maha Guru is also remembered via the recitation of the Guru Gita, a holy scripture. Flowers and gifts are delivered, as well as 'prasad', also known as 'charanamritha'.

Guru Purnima 2024: Puja Vidhi

Sandal pujas are performed in some ashrams on the belief that they are those of Sage Ved Vyas. Others go to their spiritual teachers and recommit their lives and spiritual pathways to them.

Guru Purnima 2025

Next year, the Guru Purnima will fall on Thursday, July 10.