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Basant Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrating the Goddess Saraswati- the God of learning and knowledge. It is a commonly believed that Saraswati was born on this day. The festival marks the beginning of the spring season and is celebrated every year on the 5th day of the bright fortnight month of Magha, as per the lunar calendar. It usually falls in the month of January-February. The term ‘Vasant’ or ‘Basant’ signifies the spring season. Hindus all over celebrate this festival with great zeal and enthusiasm. The day is also referred to as the ‘Saraswati day’ or ‘Saraswati Puja’. The festival is observed with great fervor particularly in the North Eastern parts of India.
The day is regarded as the most auspicious day to begin a child’s education. This is the most significant aspect of the festival. Pre-school children are given their first lesson on this day and all educational institutions organize special puja ceremony and prayer service. It is believed that Goddess Saraswati showers blessings for the successful education of children. The day is also regarded as a great day to inaugurate new schools or training institutes. Another significant feature is that, it was on this day in 1916 that Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya (1861-1946) founded the Banaras Hindu University. The yellow color assumes great significance as it symbolizes the blossoming of fruits and crops. The festival is associated with religious, seasonal and social significance.
Basant Panchami is the first festival of the year and is celebrated with great vivacity and festivity. Since the yellow color holds special significance, people are seen wearing yellow clothes and yellow tilak on their forehead. The day of Basant Panchami is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and hence, offerings are made to the god either at home or in the temples. Most people celebrate Basant Panchami at home around the idol of Goddess Saraswati. They offer flowers and wild berries to the goddess. Children place their school books, pencils and pens at the feet of the Goddess for blessings. Priest performs elaborate puja rituals with sandalwood, ghee, joss sticks and incense accompanied by the sound of shlokas, conch shells and drums. Educated men and men of great learning celebrate the occasion for spiritual enlightenment.
People also fly kites on the festive occasion of Basant Panchami. It is in fact a festival that is celebrated all over India in different flavor, in different traditions and customs.
Last Updated On: 2011/07/04
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