Saraswati Puja

Saraswati Puja, celebrated on Vasant Panchami, marks the worship of the goddess of learning, music, and arts. In Bengal, it is especially important for students.

The idol of Saraswati is placed on a decorated altar with books, pens, musical instruments, and ink pots. The goddess is offered white flowers, fruits, sweets, and khichuri bhog. Students, dressed in yellow attire, perform pushpanjali, seeking blessings for wisdom and knowledge. A special ritual is “hate khori,” where small children are initiated into learning by writing their first alphabets before the goddess. The festival also carries a joyful spirit with cultural programs, kite-flying, and community gatherings.