Hari Aum!

With deep reverence and humility, I present this discourse on the auspicious occasion of Guru Poornima—a day dedicated to honoring the divine presence of the Guru in our lives, the guiding light on the path of self-realization.

We begin by acknowledging the infinite glory of Bhagvan, the Supreme Being. The Aitareya Upaniṣad, one of the profound texts of the Rgveda, offers an intriguing and captivating description of creation. It narrates how the universe, with all its magnificent diversity, emerged from the will of the Supreme Consciousness. This act of creation is not merely a physical manifestation but a divine play, a cosmic dance that reflects the boundless glory and limitless power of the Divine. Every element in creation, from the grandest galaxies to the tiniest atom, is a testament to this divine will, and understanding this truth is the first step towards realizing the glory of Bhagvan.

From this vast expanse of creation, we turn our focus to the glory of the human being. Among all creations, the human being holds a unique position. We are endowed with the capacity for reason, emotion, and, most importantly, the potential for self-realization. The human form is a precious gift, an opportunity to transcend the limitations of the material world and recognize our true nature as divine beings. Yet, this realization is not easily attained; it requires guidance, discipline, and grace.

This is where the glory of the Guru becomes paramount. The Guru is not merely a teacher but a dispeller of darkness, a beacon of light who leads the seeker from ignorance to knowledge, from bondage to liberation. The Guru embodies the wisdom of the scriptures and the compassion of the Divine, providing the necessary guidance to navigate the complexities of life and the challenges of the spiritual journey. The Guru’s teachings are the key to unlocking the mysteries of the self and the universe, leading us towards the ultimate goal of self-realization.

Finally, we come to the glory of the Guru Padukas, the sacred sandals of the Guru. These padukas symbolize the Guru’s teachings and the path to liberation. They are a reminder that the feet of the Guru are the very foundation of our spiritual journey, and it is through surrendering at these feet that we receive the grace and blessings necessary to progress on the path. The Guru Padukas represent humility, devotion, and the unwavering faith that the disciple places in the Guru.

In conclusion, the essence of Guru Poornima lies in recognizing that the Guru is the only gateway to the realization of the Self. Without the Guru’s guidance, the journey towards self-realization remains incomplete. On this sacred day, let us offer our deepest respects to the Guru, the embodiment of divine knowledge, and dedicate ourselves to walking the path laid out by them with unwavering devotion and commitment.

Hari Aum!