AstrologgerGuru Purnima
29 July 2026 · Vyasa
2026 dates are good-faith estimates from standard panchang references — confirm the exact date and muhurat against a current Panchang before planning.
Significance
Ashadha Purnima is dedicated to honouring one's spiritual and academic guru. Also called Vyasa Purnima, it marks the birth of sage Veda Vyasa, compiler of the Vedas. Disciples express gratitude through worship and offerings to their teachers.
Astrological significance
Guru Purnima falls on the full moon of Ashadha, the fully-lit night that closes the lunar fortnight, symbolically likening the guru's guidance to the moon dispelling darkness. It sits within the early Chaturmas period, a traditional time for study and retreat. As a full-moon festival, its Gregorian date shifts within June and July.
Month: Ashadha · Paksha: Shukla · Purnima (full moon) of Ashadha — also called Vyasa Purnima.
How Guru Purnima is observed
- Offering worship and gratitude to one's guru or teacher
- Reciting scriptures associated with Veda Vyasa
- Attending discourses and satsangs
- Beginning a period of study or spiritual practice
- Giving offerings (guru dakshina) to teachers
Frequently asked questions
When is Guru Purnima in 2026?+
In 2026 it falls on 29 July 2026. As a full-moon festival the date shifts each year, so confirm against a current panchang.
What does Guru Purnima celebrate?+
It honours spiritual and academic teachers and marks the birth of the sage Veda Vyasa, which is why it is also called Vyasa Purnima.
Why is it observed on a full moon?+
The bright full moon of Ashadha symbolises the guru's knowledge dispelling ignorance, and the day falls in the study-oriented Chaturmas period.
How is it observed?+
Disciples worship and thank their gurus, recite scriptures, attend discourses, and offer guru dakshina.