Guru Purnima, the festival that celebrates the significance of teachers and mentors in our lives, holds great significance. The word "Guru" means teacher, while "Purnima" refers to the full moon when the moon appears round and bright. Combining the two, Guru Purnima is a day dedicated to honouring and expressing gratitude towards the knowledge imparted by our teachers. It is a sacred and significant festival observed in India, where we show respect and gratitude to our mentors, teachers, and spiritual guides for their contributions.
Legend has it that on this auspicious day, Lord Shiva began imparting yogic knowledge to his students, marking the beginning of the revered Guru-Shishya or the Teacher-Student tradition. It is a day to acknowledge the unwavering support of our teachers and mentors in our endeavours and be grateful for the wisdom and knowledge that shape our lives.
Apart from emphasizing gratitude for the teacher’s contribution to our lives, Guru Purnima is also a celebration of learning. It celebrates the importance of knowledge and learning and inspires the attainment of knowledge, and recognises it as a lifelong process.
Guru Purnima goes beyond expressing gratitude solely to teachers in schools and institutions. It encompasses all the forces of nature and individuals who have taught us something at different stages of our lives. It is a day to extend our love and gratitude to everyone who has helped us become who we are today and have impacted our lives with their teachings.
Our parents, as our first role models, whom we’ve closely watched, growing up. They guide us with their stern ways and heartfelt care, acting as emotional support and moral exemplars. They leave a lasting impact on our lives from the very beginning, making them our first teachers.
Our friends, our teachers in disguise, also contribute to our growth by inspiring us to explore beyond our comfort and known ways, offer different perspectives and broaden our horizons.
Friends who teach us that whether in the face of dilemma or the bliss of triumphs, true ones always stay by your side no matter the circumstances
Or be it Mother nature! Through its awe-inspiring harmony, incomprehensible strength and breathtaking beauty, nature has always taught us the importance of balance, harmony and respect. The various elements of nature exemplify qualities that are immensely significant in our lives. Be it the calmness of the water, the strength and illumination of fire, the abundance of the sky or the resilience and unity of the forests, nature is the greatest teacher known to mankind.
Furthermore, we learn from ourselves and life itself. itself. Our sense experience, our decisions and our choices, all bear implications and result in certain consequences. It is these experiences and consequences in life that teach us priceless lessons.
Inspired by the significance of Guru Purnima, let us express gratitude to our teachers and mentors, whether they are our parents, friends, the natural world, or even ourselves. Let us embrace lifelong learning with open hearts and minds, honouring knowledge and imbuing ourselves with the right qualities to lead purposeful lives. May we continue to learn and grow, expressing gratitude and honouring knowledge in every aspect of our lives.