Patna: Guru Purnima, observed on the full moon day of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashadha, will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 29 this year. According to religious tradition, the day is dedicated to expressing reverence and gratitude towards one’s Guru and is considered one of the most significant occasions in the Guru-Shishya tradition.
This year’s observance coincides with Uttarashadha Nakshatra and the Priti and Ayushman Yogas, a combination that religious scholars describe as auspicious for Guru Puja and the worship of Lord Lakshmi-Narayana.
Chaturmas to Begin From Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima also marks the beginning of Chaturmas, the four-month period during which wandering ascetics traditionally remain at one place to engage in spiritual discourse and religious practice.
According to Hindu belief, Chaturmas provides favourable conditions for study, meditation and spiritual discipline. During this period, devotees often spend time in the company of their Guru to deepen their understanding of religious teachings.
Vishnu Worship and Ganga Bath Hold Religious Importance
Astrologer said bathing in the Ganga and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu on Guru Purnima are considered especially significant.
According to traditional practices, devotees chant the Vishnu Sahasranama, Purusha Sukta, and the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namah.” Lord Narayana is ceremonially bathed with Ganga water, conch water and Panchamrit before offerings of sandalwood paste, a ghee lamp and kheer are made. The rituals conclude with a camphor aarti.
Rituals Associated With the Festival
Many households also observe the tradition of sounding bells, damrus, kartals and conch shells after completing the Purnima worship. According to religious belief, these rituals are associated with invoking prosperity, well-being and positive energy.
Devotees also worship Lord Shiva on Ashadha Purnima and seek the blessings of their Guru, praying for wisdom, spiritual progress and inner peace.
Why Guru Purnima Is Also Known as Vyasa Purnima
According to Hindu tradition, Ved Vyasa, the son of Sage Parashara and Devi Satyavati, was born on Ashadha Purnima.
He is credited with composing the Mahabharata and organising the Vedas into four sections. In recognition of his contributions to Hindu scriptures and philosophy, the festival is also observed as Vyasa Purnima, honouring both Ved Vyasa and the Guru-Shishya tradition.
Guru Purnima 2026 Muhurat
According to the religious calendar:
- Purnima Tithi: Until 7:33 PM
- Labh-Amrit Muhurat: 5:16 AM to 8:36 AM
- Shubh Muhurat: 10:16 AM to 11:56 AM
- Abhijit Muhurat: 11:29 AM to 12:22 PM
- Char-Labh Muhurat: 3:16 PM to 6:36 PM
Devotees can perform Guru Puja and worship Lord Lakshmi-Narayana during these auspicious periods, according to traditional beliefs.
