Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami or Shri Panchami or Saraswati Puja, is one of India's most vibrant and celebrated festivals. It marks the arrival of spring, occurring on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha. This year, the festival will be observed on January 23, signaling the onset of the season of new beginnings. At the heart of the celebration is the worship of Goddess Saraswati, revered as the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, and wisdom.
Significance of Basant Panchami/ Saraswati Puja:
Basant Panchami not only marks the beginning of spring but is also dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. It is a day when people seek blessings for wisdom, knowledge, and creativity. The festival holds particular importance for students, artists, and musicians, who pray to the goddess to gain proficiency and excellence in their respective fields.
The festival is celebrated with great fervor across India, especially in educational institutions, temples, and cultural centers. It is believed that Goddess Saraswati was born on this day, making it a special occasion for those pursuing education and creative endeavors. On this day, many schools, colleges, and temples host special prayers and cultural programs, with students offering prayers for academic success.
In addition to its religious significance, Basant Panchami is a celebration of spring's arrival (Basant Ritu). Wearing yellow clothes, which symbolize vibrancy and renewal, is a common tradition. People also prepare traditional sweets like Kesari Halwa and Boondi Ladoo to mark the occasion. In North India, kite flying is a popular activity, while in regions like Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Saraswati Puja is observed with immense devotion and reverence.
Saraswati Puja Muhurat:
The most auspicious time for Saraswati Puja this year is from 7:13 AM to 12:33 PM on January 23, 2026. During this period, devotees believe the divine presence of Goddess Saraswati is most powerful.
People who perform Saraswati Puja at home generally wake up early, take a bath, and dress in yellow or white clothing, often sarees or traditional wear. Students usually observe a short fast until the Pushpanjali (offering of flowers) to Goddess Saraswati. Homes are decorated with bright marigold flowers, and rangoli (alpana) is made using a paste of rice flour and water. After the puja and offerings, sweets and fruits are distributed among family members and neighbors as a symbol of joy and blessings.
Saraswati Puja Samagri (Materials):
Idol or picture of Goddess Saraswati
Yellow cloth and flowers (marigold, chrysanthemums)
Fruits (bananas, apples, etc.)
Sweets (Kesari Bhat, Boondi Ladoo, etc.)
Incense sticks, lamp, and ghee
Turmeric, kumkum, and sandalwood paste
Books, notebooks, and musical instruments
How to worship Goddess Saraswati:
For Saraswati Puja, it is recommended to wear yellow, bright, or white clothes and avoid black and red attire. During the worship, face either the east or north to create a positive and sacred atmosphere. The ideal times for puja are 2.5 hours before sunrise or 2.5 hours before sunset, as the energy during these periods is considered most favorable for spiritual practices.
Offer white sandalwood, yellow, and white flowers to Goddess Saraswati using your right hand to symbolize respect and devotion. A special prasadam (offering) made from a mixture of misri (crystallized sugar), curd, and lawa (a type of sweet) or the highly revered kesar (saffron) mixed kheer is prepared. This is believed to be the most ideal offering for seeking the goddess's blessings for wisdom and knowledge.
