Guru Purnima 2023: Date, shubh muhurat, significance, all you need to know
Date: Guru Purnima 2023 will be celebrated on Monday, 3rd July.
Shubh Muhurat: The auspicious timing for Guru Purnima puja and rituals may vary depending on the specific location. It is advisable to consult a local Hindu calendar or an astrologer to determine the precise muhurat for your area.
Significance: Guru Purnima holds immense importance in the Hindu tradition as it honors the guru-disciple relationship. The word "guru" is derived from Sanskrit and means "dispeller of darkness." On this day, disciples express their gratitude and reverence towards their spiritual and academic gurus. It is believed that spiritual energy is heightened on Guru Purnima, making it an opportune time for seeking blessings and guidance from one's guru.
Rituals and Celebrations: Devotees celebrate Guru Purnima by paying homage to their gurus. Here are some common rituals and practices associated with this festival:
Guru Puja: Devotees visit temples or their guru's ashrams to perform special puja (worship) ceremonies. They offer flowers, fruits, incense, and other items as a mark of respect.
Discourse and Satsang: Many gurus deliver spiritual discourses on this day, imparting knowledge and wisdom to their disciples. Devotees gather to listen to their teachings and engage in satsang (spiritual discussions).
Guru Dakshina: Disciples often offer Guru Dakshina, which is a token of gratitude or donation, to their gurus as a symbol of their appreciation for the knowledge and guidance received.
Chanting and Meditation: Chanting of sacred mantras and meditation are commonly practiced on Guru Purnima to seek spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Vyasa Puja: Maharishi Ved Vyasa, the legendary sage who compiled the Vedas and wrote the Mahabharata, is also revered on Guru Purnima. Devotees pay homage to him as the Adi Guru (first guru) by reciting his hymns and offering prayers.