Call it Vasant Panchami, Saraswati Puja, or Basant Panchami, the day when arrives, revives childhood memories.
The early morning awakening, adorned in new attire, promptly reaching school for Saraswati Puja, traversing from one school to another to witness grand idols of Maa Saraswati, and gathering prasad—all these moments come alive with the celebration of this festival.
Annually observed on the fifth day of the Hindi month Magh during the bright fortnight, Saraswati Puja falls between January and February in the Gregorian calendar, heralding the arrival of spring.
In the English language, ‘Vasant’ or ‘Basant’ symbolizes spring, making this celebration a marker for the commencement of the spring season.
Wondering about Saraswati Puja in 2024? Save the date! Vasant Panchami will grace us on Wednesday, 14th February 2024.
Now, let’s delve into some intriguing facts about Vasant Panchami.
The Birthday of Maa Saraswati:
According to scriptures, Basant Panchami marks the birthday of Goddess Saraswati. People nationwide celebrate the birth of the Goddess of Wisdom and Knowledge by worshiping her in homes, temples, schools, and colleges. The day is especially significant for children, who worship the ‘Vidya Ki Devi.’ Various puja ceremonies are conducted, followed by the distribution of sweets and prasad.
The Herald of Vasantotsav or Spring Season:
This festival also signifies the onset of the spring season, characterized by pleasant weather, chirping birds, blooming flowers, and a brighter sun. While some call it Vasantotsav, others celebrate it as Saraswati Puja.
Perfect Wedding Muhurt:
Basant Panchami is considered highly auspicious and is dedicated to the God of Love, Kamadeva. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati sought Kamadeva’s help to awaken Lord Shiva from meditation, making it a day of celebration known as Vasant Panchami. It is also a popular day for weddings, with many tying the knot on the Panchami tithi.
Basking in Kite Flying:
In some regions like Bihar, Punjab, and Gujarat, the Sikh and Hindu communities celebrate Basant Panchami as the festival of kites. People of all ages indulge in flying colorful kites, creating a vibrant spectacle in the sky.
Be the Sunshine in Yellow Outfits:
 Yellow takes center stage on Vasant Panchami, symbolizing the blossoming yellow mustard flowers of the spring season. Maa Saraswati’s attire is also in this shade, making the tradition of wearing yellow outfits popular on this auspicious day.
The people of West Bengal celebrate this day with grandeur, setting up elaborate pandals, performing poojas, and observing Sri Panchami. On Murti Visthapan day, they conduct vibrant processions, culminating in the immersion of Maa Saraswati’s idols in the Ganga River.
So, mark your calendar for Basant Panchami 2024 and immerse yourself in the joyous festivities!
