ESSENCE AND CELEBRATION OF GURU PURNIMA
Here’s how the residents of Dwarka celebrated the spirit of Guru Purnima -
On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima observed on July 10, Needonomics School of Thought (NST) extends heartfelt greetings to the esteemed readers of Dwarka City Newspaper, a publication that has earned the trust and affection of residents through its meaningful news and insightful perspectives. Celebrated as Vyas Purnima, this auspicious day commemorates Sage Ved Vyas, the Adi Guru who compiled the Vedas and illuminated humanity with the eternal light of knowledge. Guru Purnima is not just a tradition - it is a living tribute to the timeless relevance of our Gurus, who selflessly guide us from darkness to light, from confusion to clarity and from ego to empathy. In alignment with the principles of Needonomics, which advocates needs over greed, we urge readers to reflect on the deeper teachings of life gifted by our Gurus, teachers, parents and mentors. These guiding lights are the quiet architects of our thoughts, values and actions. Their wisdom transcends academics and shapes our ability to live with ethics, dignity and purpose. Let this Guru Purnima be a moment of rededication to lifelong learning, humility and righteous living. As proud residents of the spiritually vibrant city of Dwarka, may we find time to honor those who have shaped our journeys through a prayer, a message of gratitude, or an act of selfless service. May we remain anchored in discipline, devotion and discernment and embody the Needo-values that uplift both the self and society.
On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima, Commander V.K. Jaitly (Retd.), Chairman of Rashtrahit Foundation, offered heartfelt tribute to teachers worldwide, acknowledging their irreplaceable role in shaping individuals and building the nation. In his message, he fondly recalled his early mentor, Shri Basakhi Ram Ji of Government High School, Julakha Mohalla, Jammu Tawi, describing him as his “6-in-1 Teacher”. Basakhi Ram Ji, he said, embodied the six distinct qualities of a true Guru as defined in Sanskrit-Adhyapak (one who provides information), Upadhyaya (one who imparts knowledge), Acharya (one who teaches skills), Pandit (one who gives deep insights), Drishta (a visionary), and Guru (one who awakens inner wisdom).
Commander Jaitly also shared memories of his enriching academic journey at IIT Kharagpur, where he was deeply influenced by iconic professors like Prof. M.N. Faruqui and Prof. Y.P. Singh. Their deep connection with students and dedication to teaching left an enduring impact.
To honour the legacy of such educators, Commander Jaitly announced his upcoming book titled “100 Great IIT Professors: Who Made IITs What They Are!” This initiative is a follow-up to his earlier acclaimed book, “100 Great IITians: Dedicated to the Service of the Nation.”
He concluded with a respectful pranaam to today’s educators, calling them architects of India’s journey towards becoming a Vishwa Guru.
"Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara..." - this sacred verse highlights the immense significance of a Guru in one’s life. The word “Guru” means “the dispeller of darkness,” symbolizing someone who leads us from ignorance to knowledge. Guru Purnima is a sacred and significant festival in Indian culture, celebrated to pay homage to all Gurus. A Guru can be a spiritual master, an academic teacher, a book, or even a person who inspires and enlightens us from within - motivating us to walk the path of goodness and contribute positively to society. Observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July), this day holds deep spiritual, cultural and philosophical importance. According to ancient scriptures, it marks the birth anniversary of Maharshi Vyasa - the revered sage who authored the Mahabharata and compiled the Vedas. Hence, it is also known as Vyasa Purnima. Maharshi Vyasa is regarded as one of the greatest gurus in Indian tradition. In Buddhism, Guru Purnima is also of great reverence, as it is believed that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath on this day after attaining enlightenment. Guru Purnima is more than just a festival - it is a day to express respect and gratitude to all our Gurus, including parents, teachers, scriptures and mentors and to renew our commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement. The truest Guru Dakshina (offering to the Guru) is not in material gifts, but in practicing the teachings imparted by the Guru with sincerity and dedication.
Guru Purnima, observed on 10th July 2025, holds deep religious and spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike. It is a day dedicated to honouring all Gurus-whether spiritual mentors, academic teachers, or life guides-who have helped shape our lives and character. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Maharishi Veda Vyas and the first sermon by Lord Buddha after attaining enlightenment. For me, Guru Purnima is a time of personal reflection and immense gratitude. I had the privilege of studying at a Sainik School in Rajasthan-a public residential institution where our revered Gurus lived among us on campus. Their influence went far beyond academics; they taught us discipline, dedication, and the true value of life. Living with them 24x7, we were mentored to become not just educated citizens but disciplined soldiers and committed contributors to society.
Whatever I or my schoolmates have achieved in life is entirely due to the tireless efforts of our Gurus, who helped shape our destinies. Many of us went on to serve the nation with pride-one classmate became the Chief of Army Staff, and another rose to the second-highest Constitutional post in India. To commemorate this day, we-mostly now superannuated-gather annually to pay homage to our teachers and pledge to give back to society. A memorable moment came in October 2024 during our Golden Jubilee celebration, where we had the honour of felicitating four of our living Gurus, all aged over 92, in an emotional and unforgettable reunion.
On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima, while we pay homage to our teachers, mentors, and spiritual guides, let us not forget to bow first to our most divine and lifelong Gurus-our parents. They are our first teachers, mentors, and protectors who, through their love, patience, and unwavering sacrifice, shape our very existence.
A mother teaches us compassion, strength, and the beauty of unconditional love. A father instills in us discipline, courage, and resilience. Together, they become the foundation of our life-guiding our first steps, nurturing our curiosity, and helping us grow with strong moral values.
In their words, we learn wisdom. In their silence, we find strength.
In their actions, we witness life’s most valuable lessons. Even today, at the age of 76, I often find myself seeking their presence when faced with difficult decisions. I sit in calm reflection, remembering their teachings and their values-and somehow, I find the strength and clarity to move forward. Such is the timeless guidance of parents.
Guru Purnima is a day not just to celebrate academic or spiritual Gurus but also to honour those who have been a constant guiding force throughout our lives. Let us offer our deepest respect, heartfelt gratitude, and unconditional love to our parents-our eternal Gurus-for shaping our minds, hearts, and souls, every day of our lives.
With unwavering faith I completely surrender with humble pranams at his lotus feet, my sincere prayers seeking his kind and divine guidance throughout my life.
On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the Gurus who guide and inspire. Today, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my first Guru, my mother-Guru Basanti Mishra. She has been the foundation of my journey, not only as an Odissi dancer but as a human being.
From my earliest memories, she has been my mentor, guiding me through every step of life with love, patience, and dedication. It is she who introduced me to the divine art of Odissi dance and nurtured my passion with consistent encouragement and discipline. Through all the challenges I faced, it was her strength and belief in me that kept me going.
Her unwavering support and constant motivation helped me believe in myself and pursue my dreams. Her teachings went beyond dance; she taught me life’s values, resilience, and grace.
On this special day, I pray for her good health and happiness. May her wisdom continue to guide me in all walks of life. Thank you, Maa, for being my Guru, my strength, and my inspiration today and always.
Guru Purnima holds immense religious and spiritual significance in Hinduism, where the Guru is considered next to God-a divine force who removes darkness and leads the disciple towards enlightenment. However, this day is not only important to Hindus. It is equally significant to Buddhists, who commemorate Lord Buddha’s first sermon on this day after attaining enlightenment, and to Jains, who remember Lord Mahavira’s teachings and his disciple Gautam Swami.
This auspicious day is dedicated to remembering and honouring all Gurus-parents, teachers, mentors, spiritual guides-who have shown us the right path and helped us become better individuals. They shape our values, build our character, and inspire us to overcome challenges.
This year, Guru Purnima was celebrated on 10th July 2025, with devotees across the country offering prayers, expressing gratitude, and remembering the wisdom of their Gurus. Let us continue to honour our Gurus not just on this day but throughout our lives-with respect, gratitude, and love.
On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, I take a moment to reflect on the many Gurus and mentors who have guided me throughout my life’s journey-from school to college, and into my professional career. My school teachers laid the strong foundation upon which I stand today. They instilled in me the discipline, values, and curiosity that shaped my early years. My college professors gave me the confidence to explore my potential, showcase my talents, and believe in my dreams. Above all, I am forever grateful to my beloved parents and grandparents, my first and lifelong Gurus. They have been the true guiding lights in my life, standing by me through every high and low. My parents taught me the path of truth, honesty, and unconditional love. Their lessons in spirituality, respect, and selflessness continue to empower me every day. They showed me that courage and truthfulness make you unique and strong enough to face any challenge in life. Their unwavering support, love, and wisdom inspire me to keep growing, learning, and achieving my goals.
On this sacred day, I bow in gratitude to all my Gurus for their priceless contributions to my life.
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