Unlocking the Secrets of Basant Panchami. The Joyous and sacred festival of Saraswati Puja, commonly known as Basant Panchami, has dawned upon us. This celebration venerates the Goddess of Knowledge, Maa Saraswati, and signals the commencement of the enchanting spring season. Each passing year, Basant Panchami graces us on the fifth day of the Maagh month, falling either in January or February. This festive occasion is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, embodying virtues of knowledge, education, creativity, and music.
Puja Timing: In the present year, the exuberant festivities of Basant Panchami will unfold on Wednesday, February 14. The Panchami Tithi will commence at 2:41 pm on February 13, concluding at 12:09 pm on February 14.
Significance of Basant Panchami: This lively festival heralds the advent of spring, where the vibrant color yellow assumes a prominent role. Yellow attire, yellow-hued foods – devotees immerse themselves in this color symbolizing prosperity, optimism, energy, and positivity. Alongside worshiping the goddess, offerings include pens, pencils, books, and pure, auspicious flowers like marigolds, jasmine, and roses.
Puja Vidhi: On this propitious day, adorning the deity in a resplendent yellow outfit is advised. Devotees then present flowers, fruits, and predominantly yellow sweets. Camphor and agarbatti are lit, prayers for prosperity are fervently offered. New stationeries are placed, adorned with tilak, seeking the Goddess’s blessings for prosperity and knowledge.
Foods and Basant Panchami: No festival is complete without a delightful array of fruits and sweets. On this auspicious day, a variety of foods are prepared, each holding its own significance.
- Ber: A seasonal fruit offered to Goddess Saraswati, promoting skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and aiding digestion.
- Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are presented to the Goddess, known for lowering cholesterol and enhancing eyesight.
- Khichdi: In certain regions of India, Khichdi is served as bhog to the Goddess.
- Boondi: Crafted from gram flour, edible color, and sugar syrup, these petite sweet balls are a delightful offering.
- Gur Wale Chawal: Comprising rice, jaggery, water, milk, and ginger, this wholesome treat is presented to Goddess Saraswati.
- Panchamrit: A healthy concoction with curd, milk, ghee, honey, and tulsi leaves, offered to the devi on this auspicious day.”