Who is Goddess Saraswathi?

Goddess Saraswati is the spouse of Lord Brahma as per Rig Veda and Hindu mythology. She bestows knowledge music, arts, wisdom and learning. This is why she is revered across the globe, especially in Nepal, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bali and Myanmar.

It is believed that this deity blessed the earth with music, art and creativity to end boredom. Her beautiful idol is dressed in ivory white saree. She often appears seated on lotus flower. She personifies purity and enrichment.

Why she is worshipped on Vasant Panchami?

The 5th day of spring season in India is observed as Vasant Panchmi. It is the festival of flowers, blossoms, harvest and happiness. The entire nature revives with its onset.

Vasant Panchami is a festival of Hindus. The masters bless their disciples to trigger new semester in education. They begin their day by worshipping the goddess. Teachers gift their student stationery items and books.

People cook yellow food; dress up in yellow cloths and dedicate yellow flowers at the feet of this goddess. But before that, her idol is embellished with white saree with yellow border. White colour symbolizes purity, prosperity and love. This is why this colour complies with her attributes.

The goddess’ statue is anointed with turmeric and vermillion (Kumkum). With mango leaves, dry rice, coconut, betel leaves & nuts, banana, fruits, banana leaf, ghee, camphor incense stick and jaggery, she is worshipped. Afterwards, soaked rice, jaggery and cardamom are mixed well to prepare Thullu Maavu.Subsequently, all books, learning items and laptops and other accessories are also anointed.

Apart from this festival, she is worshipped on the ninth day of Navratri. Her devotees worship their tools for conducting Ayudh Pooja (worshipping of tools). The books and tools are kept untouched.
Her beej mantra “Om Shreem Bhreem Saraswataye Namah” is chanted while revering her. This ritual is followed by teaching first lesson to the students.