Guru – a person who teaches Hinduism

(Pronounced guh-roo)

Note: Gurus usually have lots of followers, as Hinduism recommends people find themselves a teacher for a better chance of spiritual development.

To remember the meaning of the Hindu term Guru, use the following mnemonic:

The kangaroo (Guru) was a brilliant teacher.

In Hinduism, religious self-instruction is generally considered to be ineffective. It is the guru – a kind of mentor, instructor and confidant – who presides over religious teaching. These days, a guru may be male or female.

The example set by the guru, who has reached spiritual enlightenment, leads devotees to discover the same potential within themselves.

In the past, a pupil lived at the home of their guru, serving the guru with obedience and devotion.

Later, the guru came to be venerated as leader or founder of one or a number of sects, and this included women gurus. Gurus became the living embodiment of the spiritual truth professed by a sect and so was closely identified with the deities, or gods.

Devotees still offer willing service and obedience to the guru, who is often treated with the same respect paid to the deities during worship.

Guru’s birthdays are celebrated by their followers as a festival day.