Basanta Panchami Being Observed Across Nepal

Basanta Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is being observed across the country today (Friday), marking the beginning of the spring season. The festival falls on Magh Shukla Panchami—the fifth day of the waxing moon in the lunar month of Magh (mid-January to mid-February).

The day is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, learning and creativity. It is especially observed by students, who worship the goddess seeking knowledge, intellect and success in education.

Devotees thronged Saraswati temples across the country from early morning to offer prayers. There is a strong belief that worshipping Goddess Saraswati on this day enhances wisdom and learning. Traditionally, young children who have not yet started school are initiated into learning through akshararambha (the first writing ritual) on this day, as it is considered highly auspicious to begin education.

(Sunil Sharma/NBA)

Goddess Saraswati, depicted as fair-complexioned and holding a veena (a musical instrument), and a book, is revered by various names including Bharati, Sharada, Hansabahini and Bagishwari. As the deity of knowledge and creativity, she is particularly worshipped by writers, artists, journalists, teachers and students, who place items such as pens, notebooks, brushes and musical instruments before her during prayers.

Basanta Panchami is also associated with the onset of spring, when days gradually become longer as the sun begins its northward journey. Religious scriptures, including the Gandharva Purana, mention that beginning education after worshipping Saraswati on this day brings success and wisdom.

Although the day is traditionally considered auspicious for social and religious ceremonies such as weddings, bratabandha and bel bibaha, such rituals are not being performed this year due to the setting of Venus, according to astrologers.

In the Kathmandu Valley, large crowds—particularly students—visit temples such as Swayambhu, Maitidevi and Nil Saraswati in Gairidhara, as well as at Lele in Lalitpur and other Saraswati shrines across the country.

Text: RSS, Photos: Sunil Sharma/NBA