On this auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, I pay respect to my  Guru, Philosopher, Mentor & Guide that has brought immense transformation since the day I met her. Below phrases from Guru Stotram in Sanskrit means, Guru is the form of Brahma (creator), Vishnu (sustainer) & Maheshwara (transformer) – Guru is the form of Supreme Brahman itself; I bow down in reverence to this for of Guru.

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुर्गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः ।
गुरुरेव परं ब्रह्म तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः ॥१॥

Guru Brahma Guru Vishnu Guru Devo Maheswara
Guru Saakshat Para Brahma Tasmai Shri Guruve Namah

In ancient culture of the East (Bharat/India) Guru is given utmost importance, perhaps more than the parents for he/she shapes the future of the student. A Guru is like vast ocean of knowledge & wisdom for a student.

As the times have gone by, the cycle of seeking and learning has shaped into fun, exciting and a non-stop process, for the good of humanity. Transformation of a seeker ceases the moment they stop learning, from people, surrounding and circumstances.

Who exactly is a Guru?

The concept and role of Guru has been given lot of importance throughout our history. In ancient India (Bharat), children were sent to Gurukuls where they would learn under the guidance of Teachers and Gurus. The practice eventually became hybrid with implosion of cultures and societal influences however the role of Guru has been important than ever, especially in this digital age where gadgets influence us more than real people.

Difference between Teacher and Guru?

It could be said as play of words when defining Teacher and Guru, both have the same role of teaching something new. A Guru also shares his knowledge and experience for better prospects of the student. There is a subtle difference, a Guru also implants wisdom in their students. The student takes it forward in practicing the teachings and share it with the world.

Guru as a Catalyst

As the generations are progressing, the role of teachers are becoming tad bit mechanical. A new batch of students steps in, the old batch leaves and the cycle goes on. However, the nurturing role of a Guru has and will always remain important. For the love of their student makes them get involved beyond personal boundaries – many do!

The role of a Guru is never easy too, they themselves have to mold to the capacity & nature of students – it’s a dynamic path and exceptional Gurus fit in with ease.

“A teacher Takes a hand, Opens a mind, Touches a heart and Shapes the future”

There are rare Gurus who personify the role of a true catalyst and bring not just pesky changes but Transformation on physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels.

I bow down to my Guru and all those who selflessly are serving humanity and being torch bearers for many more students to come.

Ekta – Faculty at Kosmic Fusion