Guru Purnima

Bengali

Also known as: Vyasa Purnima

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2026 Bengali Date

Guru Purnima

About Guru Purnima

Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of Ashadh month (June-July) in honour of spiritual teachers and gurus. In Bengal, the day holds special significance for the Vaishnava tradition and is celebrated at various maths and ashrams.

The festival commemorates the birthday of Sage Vedavyasa, who compiled the Vedas and authored the Mahabharata. Devotees express gratitude to their gurus who guide them on the spiritual path.

In Bengal's spiritual centres, elaborate celebrations are organised where disciples gather to offer floral tributes, sing devotional songs, and seek blessings from their gurus. The Belur Math of the Ramakrishna Mission holds special ceremonies.

Guru Purnima is also celebrated in schools and colleges, where students honour their teachers with flowers and gifts, acknowledging the vital role of education in shaping their lives.

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

Devotees observe a light fast and spend the day in spiritual contemplation.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:

Observe a light fast, consuming only fruits and milk.
Visit the guru or spiritual teacher and offer respects.
Participate in satsangs and devotional gatherings.
Read or listen to spiritual texts and teachings.

Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The fast is broken after offering respects to the guru with prasad.

Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps

Essential Puja Samagri:

Flowers and garlands for the guruIncense sticks and earthen lampsSpiritual texts and booksFruits and sweets as offeringsKumkum and sandalwood paste

Puja Procedure:

Clean the puja area and set up the guru's portrait or idol.
Offer flowers, garlands, and kumkum to the guru.
Listen to or read spiritual teachings.
Seek blessings and receive prasad.
Distribute prasad among devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is Guru Purnima celebrated?

Guru Purnima honours spiritual teachers and gurus, commemorating the birthday of Sage Vedavyasa who compiled the Vedas. It is a day to express gratitude to those who guide us on the spiritual path.

Q: How is Guru Purnima celebrated in Bengal?

In Bengal, Guru Purnima is celebrated at maths, ashrams, and educational institutions. Disciples offer floral tributes to their gurus, participate in satsangs, and honour teachers.

Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).

Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.