Guru Purnima

Gurupurnima or Full Moon is also a wonderful time to visit Shirdi. It is the time to honor the Guru and seek his special blessing. Quite a significant festival in Shirdi Guru Purnima was the only festival which Saibaba has asked his devotees to celebrate. This is the time devotees all across the world converge in Shirdi to seek Saibaba's blessings. There is also Vyasa Puja that is held during Guru Purnima, in honor of Ved Vyasa who wrote the epic Mahabharata

Guru Purnima is observed on the full moon day during Ashadha month as per Hindu calendar. Guru Puja or Guru Worship is done on this day. Traditionally disciple offer puja and pay their obeisance to their Guru or teachers on this day. Guru in Sanskrit is translated as "dispeller of darkness and refers to spiritual guide who enlightens his disciples through his knowledge and teachings.

The place of Guru is very high in the Indian culture and mythology. And, they are filled with the famous legends wherein the pupils have gone to lengths to please or appease their mentors. We are also aware of Sandipani Rushi, Eklavy, Baiju Bawra and many other stories related to Guru Shishya.

Guru Poornima is basically the festivals of the ‘seekers’ – the seekers of the divine wisdom, knowledge, spirituality, peace and greater prudence.

On this auspicious day you can do the following –
 

·         Take blessings of your Guru, and offer Dakshina if possible.

·         You may recite Guru Leelamrut or Datta Bawani.

·         You may also recite Saai Charitra.

·         If you do not have an appointed Guru, you may also perform the Pooja of your family deity.

·         You may also offer yellow clothes or Sandalwood, yellow pulses (daal) at a temple or to any Brahmin on this day.

Guru Poornima can also be called as the ‘Teacher’s Day’, as per the Indian spiritual practices and culture. Sant Kabir has rightly stated that – 

Guru ke sumiran maatr se, nasht vighn anant
Taase sarv aarambh me(i), Dhyaavat hai sab sant

(Just by remembering your Guru, you will be able to overcome all the obstacles. That’s why at the beginning of everything, Guru is remembered – not only by the saints, but also by many common people)