Saraswati Puja Celebrated with Reverence and Fervor

Today, devotees across the nation are immersed in prayers and rituals as they celebrate Saraswati Puja, venerating the goddess of learning, knowledge, and the arts.

On the auspicious occasion of Magh Shukla Panchami, also known as Sri Panchami or Basant Panchami, devotees gather to honor Saraswati, seeking her blessings for wisdom and intellect. This day holds significance as it marks the onset of spring, symbolizing renewal and growth.

In schools and homes alike, students begin their day with an early bath, followed by collective Saraswati Puja ceremonies. Temples reverberate with the chants of Basanta Shrawan as devotees pay homage to the goddess.

Offerings ranging from milk and curd to sesame laddus and fruits are presented to Saraswati, symbolizing purity and devotion. Devotees adorn the puja area with white flowers, sandalwood, and conch shells, reflecting the goddess’s affinity for these elements.

The chanting of the sacred mantra ‘Shri Hreem Saraswatyai Namaha’ resonates during the puja, believed to invoke Saraswati’s blessings of knowledge, wisdom, and good fortune. Following the rituals, devotees recite stotras, hymns dedicated to the goddess, seeking her divine grace.

The festival holds special significance for students, who embark on their educational journey by learning alphabets and attending early classes in temples and pre-primary schools. Educational institutions across the country celebrate Saraswati Puja with fervor, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and learning.

Pilgrims from far and wide flock to various Saraswati temples, including Jayabageshwari, Pashupati, and Swayambhu’s Saraswatisthan, among others, to seek the blessings of the goddess.

As devotees immerse themselves in prayer and reflection, Saraswati Puja continues to be a cherished tradition, fostering a deep reverence for learning and the arts in Nepali culture.