KATHMANDU, Feb 3: Shree Panchami, also known as Basanta Panchami, is being observed nationwide with devotion, honoring Goddess Saraswati. Devotees worship Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and learning, who is depicted as having a fair complexion, holding a ‘veena’ (lute) and a book in her hands. She is also revered by names such as Bharati, Sharada, Hansvahini, Jaganmata, Vagishwari, Kaumari, Varadayini, Buddhidatri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, and Bhuvaneshwari.
As the goddess of wisdom and creativity, Saraswati is particularly worshiped by writers, artists, journalists, teachers, and students. They offer prayers to their tools of learning and creativity, such as pens, notebooks, paintbrushes, and musical instruments, considering them sacred symbols of Saraswati. Tantric practitioners also worship her as ‘Tara Devi’ for spiritual attainment.
Saraswati Puja being observed today
This day marks the beginning of longer days and the arrival of the spring season, which is why it is also called ‘Basanta Panchami’. The ‘Rigveda’ describes Saraswati as ‘Vagdevi’, the goddess of speech, and mentions that worshiping Brahmayani, the consort of Lord Brahma, grants wisdom, knowledge, and enlightenment to the devotee. Due to this belief, Saraswati Puja holds great significance. It is believed that beginning education on this day leads to success in learning.
There is also a belief that auspicious activities such as weddings, ‘Bratabandha’ (sacred thread ceremony), ‘Gufa’ rituals, and ‘Bel Bibaha’ (Ihi) do not require an astrologically determined time (Sait) on this day. It is also considered auspicious to initiate children into learning and perform ear and nose piercing ceremonies on this day.
Temples of Saraswati across the Kathmandu Valley, including those in Dillibazar, Swayambhu, Maitidevi, and Gairidhara, as well as in Lele of Lalitpur, and other districts, are witnessing large crowds of devotees, especially students, from early morning.
A religious belief states that swallowing seven grains of rice (Akshata) offered to Goddess Saraswati enhances wisdom and intelligence, illuminating the mind with divine knowledge.
