Guru Purnima 2026: Celebrate The Sacred Day With Shri Hari Worship And Auspicious Rituals

New Delhi: As soon as the full moon of Ashadh arrives, Guru Purnima is celebrated across the country. This is not just a day to pay obeisance to the Guru. It is also considered a festival of spiritual progress and cultivation of knowledge. Maharishi Vedvyas' birthday is also celebrated on this day hence it is also called Vyas Purnima. On this day people worship their Guru, worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, take bath in rivers and do charity. It is believed that worshiping at the right time brings happiness, prosperity and knowledge in the house.

What is considered to be the religious significance of Guru Purnima?

According to the Puranas, Maharishi Vedvyas compiled the four Vedas and composed a huge book like Mahabharata. That's why he is called "Adi Guru". For this reason, the tradition of celebrating Ashadh Purnima as Guru Purnima has been going on for centuries. Guru has the highest place in Indian culture. Guru is said to be the one who takes us out of darkness and takes us towards light. Due to this thinking, the worship of Guru on this day has been given equal status to the worship of God. In schools, ashrams and homes, disciples touch the feet of their Guru and take blessings.

Guru Purnima 2026: Key Timings

• Abhijit Muhurat: 12:00 PM to 12:55 PM
• Amrit Choghadiya Muhurat: 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM
• Ashadha Purnima Begins: July 28, 2026, at 6:18 PM
• Ashadha Purnima Ends: July 29, 2026, at 8:05 PM

Why do bathing and charity have special significance on this day?

It is believed that on the day of Guru Purnima, waking up in Brahma Muhurta and taking bath with water mixed with Ganga water from a holy river, lake or at home is auspicious. After this, there is a tradition of donating food, clothes, fruits, umbrella, water vessel and Dakshina to the needy people. It is said in religious texts that donations made on this day provide manifold benefits. Those who for some reason cannot take a pilgrimage bath can take bath at home and worship with devotion.

How to worship Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi?

Clean the temple of the house in the morning. Bathe the idols of Vishnu ji and Lakshmi ji with Ganga water. Then offer yellow flowers, basil, incense sticks and offerings. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama and Lakshmi Mantra. Don't just ask for money in puja. Also pray for wisdom, peace and contentment. After the puja, perform aarti and distribute the prasad among everyone. Wearing yellow clothes is considered auspicious on this day.

How should one worship the Guru?

If your guru, teacher or any guide is alive then meet him. Take blessings by touching the feet. Offer them fruits, clothes or something as per your devotion and promise that you will follow the path shown by them. Those whose Guru is no more can remember him by lighting a lamp in front of his picture. Calling your old teacher today and saying “Thank you” is also guru puja.

Are any special measures taken on this day?

According to astrology, it is good to worship banana tree and chant Brihaspati Mantra on this day. People who want progress in business offer yellow sandalwood, saffron and basil to Lord Vishnu. This day is special for students also. It is considered auspicious to start a new book or read a new topic from today.

Does this festival give a social message?

Guru Purnima is not limited to religious rituals only. This festival reminds us of the importance of knowledge, discipline, values and Guru-shishya tradition. Even in modern times, this day is an opportunity to express gratitude towards all those teachers, guides and inspirational persons who have played an important role in deciding the direction of life. This is why special programmes are organised on this occasion in ashrams, temples, educational institutions and spiritual centres across the country.