Nizamabad: Nizamabad Urban MLA Dhanpal Suryanarayana said that the Guru holds a place equal to God in Indian tradition and plays a vital role in shaping an individual’s life. He was speaking after performing Guru Padapuja to Guru Kona Samundar Srinath Sharma and his wife at Bingi Kalyana Mandapam in the city on Wednesday as part of Guru Purnima celebrations. Quoting the verse, “Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara,” he said the Guru is the embodiment of the Supreme Being. Dhanpal said it is a long-standing tradition to honour Gurus by performing Padapuja and offering clothes, fruits, books, and other gifts. He added that Guru Purnima reminds society of the values of knowledge, humility, culture, and dharma.