Guru Purnima Festival 2020

Suva

Yesterday, was a full moon day and Hindus around the world celebrated the festival of Guru Purnima.

It is a day dedicated to honour, revere and remember affectionately the role gurus (Teachers) have played in moulding the lives of students. Particularly those gurus who have had great impact in moulding the career path of their students.

Guru is a Sanskrit word, which stands for: gu=darkness or ignorance and ru=remover. Thus, guru is someone who is responsible for imparting knowledge (Light) to remove darkness or ignorance. Therefore the role of a guru (Teacher) cannot be underestimated. A devoted guru can motivate and inspire students to reach the heights of glory in academia. A spiritual guru can motivate his/ her students to get liberated and reach moksha (freedom from bondage).

Our mothers are considered to be the first guru and give us the right sanskaras (sacraments), which will enable us to face the challenges of life.

The second guru is the father, who is responsible for creating the right environment in the home where the child gets holistic upbringing.

The third guru is the family priest, who also has a great impact in moulding the life of a child by giving him/her a spiritual dimension in life.

And finally, the teacher in the classroom or a lecturer at a lecture theatre has a decisive role to play in a student’s success story. On this day, people remember their teachers at kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools and at tertiary level. They pray for the health and happiness of their teachers and fondly remember the wonderful days they spent in their care. The bond of love and respect between the teacher and the taught is sacred. It is for this reason teachers are venerated.

May I wish all Hindus a very happy and memorable Guru Purnima Festival.