Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, Guru is Maheshwara, Guru is the Supreme Brahman. Salutations to that Guru.
This means: A Guru and a teacher — even Lord Vishnu and Lord Gautam Buddha — spoke about teachers. The Supreme Lord is present in front of us; this day is celebrated as Guru Purnima.
That is why a Guru or teacher has always been considered a shortcut (cheat code) in Hindu culture.
When and Why is Guru Purnima celebrated
Guru Purnima is also called Vyasa Purnima. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month.
In history, this is the day of Ved Vyasa, who is present, and is the third most important figure of all time in the Vedas.
Guru Purnima honors Ved Vyasa, known as one of the most honored Gurus of India, who structured the four Vedas.
He composed the definitions of the Vedas.
Guru Purnima also represents the worship of Lord Shiva as the Adi Guru (the original Guru).
Saint Raidas also said this.
In the Yoga Sutras, “Pranava” or Om is identified with the Adi Guru of Yoga.
Guru Purnima is celebrated on the Teacher’s Day of India.
More than just a promised day, it holds a special place in life and time.
The holy books of Hinduism emphasize the importance of Gurus, and the tradition is stored in the Guru–Shishya (Teacher–Disciple) relationship.
In Sanskrit, it is said:
Mother, Father, Guru, and God — the first place is reserved for the mother, second for the father, third for the Guru, and fourth for God.
That’s how much importance has been given to teachers and Gurus in Hindu tradition.
The significance of Guru Purnima is not limited to India alone. In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, it is an essential and suggested festival celebrated after the teachings of the faiths.
The best story of Guru Purnima in Buddhism:
On this day, Lord Buddha gave different kinds of teachings to his disciples. That is why this day is celebrated in Buddhist countries.
A bit more on Guru Purnima in Jainism:
According to Jainism, Mahavira — one of the most famous Tirthankaras — was honored as a Guru on Guru Purnima. As a result, he came to be known and respected.
Story of Guru Purnima in Hinduism:
According to some math (monasteries), Lord Shiva transferred his knowledge to the Saptarishis (seven sages). Therefore, Lord Shiva is worshipped as a Guru on Guru Purnima.
How do we celebrate Guru Purnima?
Guru Purnima is celebrated by worshipping and expressing gratitude to living teachers in ashrams and spiritual places.
Guru Purnima also involves Vishnu Puja, Vishnu Sahasranama, and chanting the names of Lord Vishnu.
People observe fasts.
Special pujas are performed in temples.
Prasadam is distributed, which includes Amrit, fruits, puri-chole, halwa, laddoos, and more.
Like Pappu, also known as Laddoo — a child named Ismail.
Wishing you a Very Happy Guru Purnima!
What are key Festivity or date celebrated across the World to honor teachers
Many countries have special days to show respect and thanks to teachers. Here are some of the most common ones:
- World Teachers’ Day (October 5)
This day is celebrated in many countries. Students give gifts, write notes, and take part in school events to thank their teachers. - Teacher Appreciation Week in the U.S. (First Week of May)
In the United States, this whole week is used to thank teachers. Students, parents, and schools plan fun events and give small gifts to teachers, especially in elementary and middle schools. - Teachers’ Day in India (September 5)
This day is celebrated on the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Students show their respect with flowers, gifts, and special performances in school. - Wan Wai Kru in Thailand (January 16)
On this day, students kneel in front of teachers and give flowers and candles. It’s a way to say thank you and show respect. - Teachers’ Day in Singapore (First Friday of September)
Schools are closed on this day. Teachers take part in celebrations and receive awards to honor their hard work. - Teachers’ Day in China (September 10)
Students give simple, homemade gifts and write thank-you notes. Former students often visit their old teachers to show respect.
Teacher Appreciation Month in the Philippines (All of October)
The whole month is used to celebrate teachers. Students prepare songs, dances, thank-you cards, and flowers.
Guru Purnima and Teacher Appreciation in the U.S.
Guru Purnima is also celebrated in the United States. People from Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist groups honor their teachers—both spiritual and academic. Temples and cultural centers like Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple in Texas and Radha Madhav Dham organize prayers and special events.
Another big event is Teacher Appreciation Week, held in the first week of May. During this time, students and schools in the U.S. thank their teachers with small gifts, kind notes, and special activities—mainly in elementary and middle schools.
Reference
- https://www.echineselearning.com/
- https://www.truescoopnews.com/stories/traditions-celebrations-teachers-day-globe
