This day is called Vyasa Poornima. It is a holy day which must be celebrated with prayer and contrition. That alone can cleanse the heart, not feasting or fasting, which affect only the body. The fact that Sage Vyasa is associated with this day or that Lord Rama or Krishna is connected with some other day is merely an opportunity to mark the day as outstandingly important, when something holy has to be done. It is a full moon today, when the moon shines without any hindrance; when moonlight is bright, cool and full. The mind of man is compared to the moon, for it is as wayward as the moon with its swing from brightness to darkness; this day, the mind too has to be bright, effulgent and cool. Sage Vyasa is the Lokaguru (teacher to the entire world): he is Divine Effulgence. But, even Vyasa can only show you the road. You have to traverse it alone.

- Divine Discourse, Jul 24, 1964.