Guru Purnima Celebrated in the Journalism and Mass Communication Department of VNSGU
Surat. The Journalism and Mass Communication Department of Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) celebrated Guru Purnima and Vyasa Jayanti on Thursday. On this occasion, students honored their teachers by offering flowers. Guest journalists present at the event were also honored.
During the event, the department head Dr. Bharat Thakor stated that Guru Purnima is celebrated in the month of Ashadha, during the rainy season. Clouds dominate the sky, obscuring the full moon. However, when the moon breaks through the clouds, we witness its divine radiance.
Similarly, a Guru dispels darkness from our lives and illuminates them. Therefore, salvation is impossible without a Guru. He also mentioned that this day is celebrated as Vyasa Jayanti, honoring Maharishi Veda Vyasa, who composed the Mahabharata as a simple yet profound scripture. This text is considered an extraordinary and unparalleled part of Indian knowledge tradition.
Dr. Thakor emphasized that this day is an expression of gratitude toward parents and Gurus, who continually inspire us to perform good deeds. He discussed topics such as Guru Dakshina and Indian philosophy of knowledge.
He particularly urged students to recognize that learning is a mutual process where everyone learns from one another. Along with achieving personal success through education, they must also fulfill their responsibilities toward society.
Being prosperous in India does not mean living only for oneself but also caring for society. He appealed to students to contribute to realizing the dream of a developed India. The goal is to make India a leader because the principle of “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” (May all be happy) is paramount here.
India must become a leader to spread happiness and peace worldwide. A large number of students attended the event. The program was conducted by students from the department’s cultural club.
Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU)
Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU), located in Surat, Gujarat, India, was established in 1965 and named after the Gujarati poet and scholar Veer Narmad. It is a prominent public university offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Known for its contributions to education and research in South Gujarat, VNSGU plays a key role in regional academic and cultural development.
Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima is a traditional Hindu and Buddhist festival celebrated in India, Nepal, and other regions to honor spiritual and academic teachers (gurus). It falls on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June–July) and is associated with the birth of Ved Vyasa, the ancient sage who compiled the Vedas. Devotees express gratitude to their gurus through prayers, offerings, and ceremonies, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and guidance in spiritual and personal growth.
Vyasa Jayanti
Vyasa Jayanti is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth anniversary of the sage Ved Vyasa, the traditional author of the Mahabharata and compiler of the Vedas. Observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Ashadha, it honors his contributions to Hindu scriptures and philosophy. Devotees recite scriptures, hold prayers, and participate in discussions on his teachings.
Maharishi Veda Vyasa
Maharishi Veda Vyasa is a revered sage in Hindu tradition, best known for compiling the Vedas and composing the epic *Mahabharata*, including the sacred *Bhagavad Gita*. He is believed to have lived in ancient India and is considered a *chiranjivi* (immortal being) who continues to guide spiritual seekers. Many temples and cultural sites honor him, symbolizing wisdom, knowledge, and the preservation of sacred texts.
Mahabharata
The *Mahabharata* is an ancient Indian epic, traditionally attributed to the sage Vyasa, and is one of the most important texts in Hinduism. Composed around 400 BCE–400 CE, it narrates the Kurukshetra War between the Pandavas and Kauravas, blending mythology, philosophy, and moral teachings. It also includes the *Bhagavad Gita*, a sacred dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, which remains a foundational spiritual text.
Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
“Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah” is a Sanskrit phrase from ancient Hindu scriptures, meaning *”May all beings be happy.”* It reflects a universal prayer for peace and well-being, often recited in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. While not a physical site, it symbolizes a spiritual and cultural ethos of compassion, rooted in texts like the *Upanishads* and *Mahabharata*, promoting harmony among all living beings.
