The one who dispels the darkness of ignorance and illumines the serene light of intellect is a Guru, a preceptor. The gurus of the present however are actually increasing the ignorance, aggravating the desires and rousing the ego, which is why their pupils are losing human values. They develop disbelief in matters concerning spirituality and even mock at these values. As a result with every passing moment their spiritual wealth declines and eventually is completely destroyed.

In this scenario, it is extremely important to understand the behaviour of pupils and the responsibilities of the preceptors. Like an alarm clock, a Guru wakes you up from your ignorance and alerts you to discharge your duties. The role of the Guru is to show the right direction; the actual walking on the path however is the responsibility of the student.

Adorning ochre robes, initiating into chanting some mantras and attempting to preach by quoting a few verses from scriptures, as is being done by some people in the modern times, does not make them gurus. A true guru should elevate the disciple to his own level. It is said Brahmavid Brahmaiva Bhavathi – A seeker of Brahman ultimately becomes Brahman. Similarly, only that person can be considered as a real guru who is capable and competent enough to raise the disciple to his own standard.

We should also try to understand the unique characteristics of a guru. A guru should have a broad-mind, and be selfless and pure in his character and behaviour. There should not be even a slight trace of greed or jealously in him. He should understand the principle of oneness that is present in everyone and act accordingly.