The onset of spring brings with it the festival of Basant Panchami which is also celebrated as Saraswati Puja in most parts of the country. This year it will be celebrated on February 10.
The onset of spring brings with it the festival of Basant Panchami which is also celebrated as Saraswati Puja in most parts of the country. This year it will be celebrated on February 10.
Goddess Saraswati, considered the deity of music, culture and learning, is worshiped on this day. Saraswati Puja has a special place for the people of Bengal.
On this day, in the various parts of West Bengal you will find women clad in traditional yellow saris offering flowers, children participating in cultural programmes and families sharing prasad.
Clay idols of the goddess with a crescent moon on the brow, riding a swan or seated on a lotus flower with flowers, fruits and sweets placed as offerings before it can be seen in various Puja Pandal.
Customary khichdi (a mixture of rice and lentils) is the traditional prasad for Saraswati Puja.
The magnificent puja pandals are the centre of attraction for the people of West Bengal. From imitation of famous waterfall at Dubai Mall to beautifully capturing the intricate work of Khajuraho Temple, these puja pandals will leave you stunned. Take a look...
1. Subh Muhurat for Saraswati Puja
)
The Tithi begins on February 9 at 12:25 and ends on February 10 at 14:08.
The Vasant Panchami Puja Muhurta is from 12:26 to 12:35.
2. Why we celebrate Saraswati Puja
)
It is believed that Goddess Saraswati was born on this day and to mark this auspicious festival, people generally dress in yellow.
3. Magnificent puja pandals
)
Puja pandal with tribal art and paintings.
The devotees perform Saraswati Puja between sunrise and midday which is also the Purvahna Kala. The puja is followed by a vegetarian meal.
4. What is Vidya-Arambham?
)
Those who have very young children can initiate their education on this auspicious day and this ritual is known as Vidya-Arambham or Akshar-Abhyasam.
5. Magnificent puja pandals
)
A puja pandal with the imitation of famous waterfall at Dubai's Mall.
