In Hinduism, the festival of Guru Purnima is considered a special day to express reverence, respect, and gratitude towards one’s Guru (spiritual teacher). In 2026, Guru Purnima will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 29. On this day, disciples worship their Guru and seek their blessings. According to religious beliefs, the birth anniversary of Maharshi Vedavyasa is also observed on Guru Purnima; hence, it is also known as Vyasa Purnima.
The Guru is regarded as the one who imparts knowledge and values, and shows the right path in life. On this day, alongside worshipping the Guru, there is also a tradition of honoring one’s parents and teachers who impart education.
Rituals for Bathing and Sankalp (Solemn Vow) on Guru Purnima
Wake up before sunrise and clean the house.
Bathing in water mixed with holy Ganga water is considered auspicious.
After bathing, wear clean clothes and clean the place of worship.
Take a Sankalp (vow) to perform the worship while meditating on Lord Vishnu, Maharshi Vedavyasa, and your Guru.
While taking the vow, resolve to follow the path shown by the Guru and to adopt knowledge, service, and virtuous conduct in your life.
Complete Procedure for Guru Worship
Place a photograph or the Charan Paduka (footwear/sandals) of the Guru at the place of worship.
Light a lamp to commence the worship.
Offer flowers, Akshat (unbroken rice grains), fruits, sweets, and clothes to the Guru.
Recite the Guru Mantra or remember your chosen deity.
Touch the Guru’s feet to seek blessings.
Donate food, clothes, and Dakshina (offering/alms) to the needy.
If the Guru is not physically present, reverence can still be expressed by worshipping their photograph or honoring their memory.
Worshipping Parents is Also Considered Auspicious
According to religious beliefs, parents are considered one’s first Gurus. On Guru Purnima, honoring one’s parents, touching their feet, and seeking their blessings is considered highly auspicious and rewarding.
On this day, many people express gratitude to their teachers, mentors, and spiritual guides, and acknowledge their contributions to their lives.
Significance of Bathing in Rivers
There is also a prevalent tradition of bathing in holy rivers on Guru Purnima. It is believed that performing rituals such as bathing, worship, and charity with devotion on this day purifies the mind and fosters the flow of positive energy.
Devotees visit the Ganges, Yamuna, and other sacred rivers and pilgrimage sites to bathe and offer prayers. However, it is important to keep safety and local regulations in mind while bathing in rivers.
Auspicious activities for Guru Purnima:
Respect your Guru and parents
Study religious scriptures
Help the needy
Let go of ego and embrace knowledge and humility
Engage in acts of charity and service
The spiritual message of Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima is not merely a festival of worship but an opportunity to embrace knowledge, discipline, and the right direction in life. This day inspires us to express gratitude towards those who have contributed to making our lives better.
