Guru Purnima

The significance behind this ancient festival

- Shri C.K Subramaniam

The Mantra 'Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu' honours the Hindu gods and teachers, namely Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. It may also be used more widely to revere and invoke the support of all spiritual Gurus. In Yogic tradition, great importance is placed upon the relationship between students and their Guru. This Mantra recognizes the value of the Gurus' teachings in finding a connection with divinity. It is ultimately an expression of gratitude for all spiritual teachers and the guidance they give in overcoming ignorance to find enlightenment and awakening. The idea of a Guru cannot be defined in a few words but a lifetime goes in finding a true Guru.

Guru Purnima is a unique concept in India, when a full moon day in the month of Ashadha is dedicated to one's