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Basant Panchami (वसन्त पञ्चमी — Spring Festival)
Overview
Basant Panchami marks the arrival of spring in the Hindu calendar, celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright fortnight of Magha (January–February). It is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts.
Worship of Saraswati
- Saraswati Puja: Students place their books and instruments before the goddess's image
- Yellow attire: People wear yellow clothes, symbolizing the mustard flowers of spring
- Yellow foods: Saffron rice, kesari halwa, boondi
- Kite flying: Especially popular in Punjab and Haryana
Regional Variations
- Punjab: Known as the "Festival of Kites"; the skies are filled with colorful kites
- Bengal: Saraswati Puja is a major cultural event; young people wear traditional yellow and white
- Rajasthan: People wear jasmine garlands and offer yellow flowers to the goddess
- Sikh tradition: Guru Gobind Singh recited the Chandi di Var on this day
Significance for Education
Basant Panchami is considered the most auspicious day to begin learning. Children are often taught their first letters on this day, and educational institutions hold special ceremonies.
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