Vasant Panchami (Saraswati Puja)
Honoring Saraswati, goddess of knowledge and learning, the herald of spring.
Vasant Panchami falls on the fifth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Magha, usually in late January or February.
When Is Vasant Panchami (Saraswati Puja)?
Vasant Panchami falls on the fifth day of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Magha, usually in late January or February.
Because the Gregorian date changes from year to year, check a calendar published by the tradition or your local community for this year's date.
Why It Matters
Vasant Panchami celebrates the arrival of spring and honors Goddess Saraswati, deity of knowledge, music, and wisdom. Students place their books and instruments before her image for blessing. Many wear yellow, the color of mustard blossoms.
How It Is Observed
Saraswati Puja with offerings of yellow flowers, students offering books and pens for blessing, arts performances, children taught their first letters (Vidyarambham), kite flying.
Sacred Text
“Ya Kundendu tushaara haara dhavala, O Goddess Saraswati, white as the kunda flower, in whose hands rest the vina and books, protect and bless us.”
, Saraswati Vandana ↗