Spiritual leaders in India have come under great focus recently following unpleasant issues involving them.  Many who worshipped Gurus as their God have developed doubts and this has caused confusion among God-seekers as to the purpose of a Guru or do we need a Guru. 
The importance of finding a Guru is emphasised in Hinduism and in the Bhagavad Gita, a dialogue between God in the form of Krishna and his friend Arjuna, a Kshatriya prince who accepts Krishna as his Guru on the battlefield, prior to a large battle. 

Not only does this dialogue outline many of the ideals of Hinduism, but their relationship is considered an ideal one of Guru-Shishya. In the Gita, Krishna speaks to Arjuna of the importance of finding a Guru.

I'm delighted to highlight to readers that renowned author and columnist T. Selva has written a well-researched piece in this issue on how to find a true Guru, which I believe will be useful to everyone seeking for a Guru.
 
I would also like to highlight a quote from departed Guruji Paramhansa Yogananda on the purpose of a Guru: 
"The purpose of the guru is not to weaken your will. It is to teach you  secrets of developing your inner power, until you can stand unshaken amidst the crash of breaking worlds." 

For those who are looking for a Guru, remember that God sends the seeker indirect guidance at first, through books and lesser teachers. 

Only when the desire for Almighty is very strong does the divine send help in the form of a self-realized Guru. 
 
Master Yuvaraj Sowma