Guru Purnima 2025: Celebrating Iconic Guru-Shishya Duos Who Inspired The Nation

Guru Purnima is more than just a festival—it’s a deep bow to the mentors who shape our minds, guide our paths, and fuel our passions. On this day of reflection and gratitude, we spotlight ten timeless Guru-Shishya duos whose bond transformed not just individual lives but entire generations.

1. Sachin Tendulkar – Ramakant Achrekar

Before he became the ‘God of Cricket,’ Sachin was a boy who trained tirelessly under coach Ramakant Achrekar. Achrekar’s sharp eye and unwavering discipline laid the foundation for Tendulkar’s greatness.

2. Swami Vivekananda – Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa

Their spiritual connection reshaped Indian philosophy. Ramakrishna nurtured a young Narendranath’s spiritual thirst, ultimately leading to Vivekananda’s rise as a global beacon of Indian wisdom.

3. Birju Maharaj – Bindadin Maharaj (Family Lineage)

Born into the legendary Lucknow gharana, Birju Maharaj absorbed Kathak from his father and uncles. This legacy-based training kept classical traditions alive with grace and precision.

4. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – Dr. Vikram Sarabhai

India’s journey into space and defence science owes much to this pair. Sarabhai’s visionary mentoring shaped Kalam’s early career, preparing him to lead India into a new scientific era.

5. Arjuna – Dronacharya

A mythical bond that remains iconic even today. Arjuna's unmatched archery skills were forged under Guru Drona’s stern but transformative guidance—an eternal symbol of devotion and discipline.

6. Ravi Shankar – Allauddin Khan

The sitar maestro honed his craft under the rigorous training of Allauddin Khan, whose teachings transformed Ravi Shankar into an international figure of Indian classical music.

7. M.S. Subbulakshmi – Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer

The golden voice of Carnatic music was fine-tuned by the legendary Semmangudi. His guidance enriched Subbulakshmi’s already divine talent with profound classical depth.

8. Viswanathan Anand – Manuel Aaron

India’s chess prodigy began his journey under the watchful mentorship of Manuel Aaron, whose early encouragement pushed Anand to aim for the world stage.

9. Pandit Bhimsen Joshi – Sawai Gandharva

Training under Kirana Gharana maestro Sawai Gandharva, Bhimsen Joshi developed the soulful yet powerful singing style that later mesmerized audiences for decades.

10. Rukmini Devi Arundale – Pandanallur Meenakshisundaram Pillai

Rukmini Devi broke cultural norms to learn Bharatanatyam from the traditional guru. Their partnership not only revived a fading art form but also elevated it globally.

On this Guru Purnima, may we honour the unseen hands behind every masterpiece, and remember that behind every great student stands a guiding light—a guru.