Happy Guru Purnima

Dear Colleagues and Connections,

On this auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all of you. This day holds a special place in our hearts as it commemorates the invaluable contributions of our mentors and guides. It is also a day to remember and honor the great sage Veda Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata and the compiler of the Vedas. His wisdom and teachings continue to inspire and guide us in countless ways.

Veda Vyasa, a towering figure in Indian history and spirituality, dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the dissemination of wisdom. One of his most significant contributions is the Mahabharata, an epic that not only tells the story of the Kuru dynasty but also imparts profound moral and philosophical lessons. For instance, the Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, is a timeless dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna that explores the nature of duty, righteousness, and the path to spiritual liberation.

In reverence of our gurus, I would like to share a beautiful Sanskrit shloka that encapsulates the essence of the guru’s role in our lives:

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Akhanda Mandalaakaaram Vyaaptam Yena Charaacharam |

Tatpadam Darshitam Yena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah ||

This shloka venerates the guru who reveals the all-pervading reality, which is boundless and encompasses everything, both movable and immovable.

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Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnu Gurur Devo Maheshwarah |

Gurur Sakshat Param Brahma Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah ||

This shloka venerates the guru as the embodiment of the Hindu trinity - Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Maheshwara (Shiva, the destroyer) - and as the supreme being himself.

Guru Purnima is also a wonderful occasion to reflect on the many stories and teachings attributed to Vyasa. One such tale is about how Vyasa dictated the Mahabharata to Lord Ganesha, who agreed to write it down on the condition that Vyasa would not pause in his recitation. This story highlights not only Vyasa's immense knowledge and wisdom but also his perseverance and dedication to sharing his insights with the world.

For those around Hyderabad, Guru Purnima offers a great opportunity to visit Basara, home to the historic Vyasa Guha (cave). It is believed that Veda Vyasa composed parts of the Mahabharata in this serene and spiritually enriching location. A visit to Basara can be a profound way to connect with our heritage and pay homage to the great sage.

As we celebrate this day, let us express our deep gratitude to all our mentors and guides who have illuminated our paths with their wisdom and support. May this Guru Purnima bring joy, wisdom, and inspiration to all of you.