Where: India and Nepal
If you visit India during Basant Panchami the description of ‘ten
thousand golden daffodils’ by William Wordsworth will strike a chord in your
memory and you will be enthralled by this visual treat of nature that surrounds
the whole country. The fields are loaded with yellow mustard and the whole
country is delightfully decorated in different shades of yellow flowers and
ribbons.
Basant Panchami also known as Vasant Panchami marks the beginning of
spring season. It falls on the fifth day of Maagh (the Indian month). In Hindi
language the word ‘Basant/Vasant’ means spring and ‘Panchami’ means the fifth
day.
Although Basant Panchami festival is celebrated all over India, the
festivities in Punjab are unique and worth attending.
Significance of Basant Panchami
Apart from marking the beginning of the spring season the festival of
Basant Panchami is also known as the birthday of Goddess Saraswati, Lord
Brahma’s wife. According to the Hindu mythology Goddess Saraswati symbolizes
constant flow of knowledge, wisdom and learning. Therefore, the festival is
especially celebrated in all institutions of learning. Students observe the
blessings from Maa Saraswati on this day.
Vasant Panchami Celebrations
This festival of spring is celebrated with great fervour and joy amongst
Hindus. Basant Panchami tradition includes wearing traditional yellow colour
clothes, cooking sweet saffron rice and visiting friends and relatives to
distribute sweets and gifts.
You will see the pure, bright and sunny yellow colour dominating the
whole country on this particular day. The Basant Panchami celebrations also comprise
an elaborate puja of Goddess Saraswati who is worshipped with full dedication.
People also feed Brahmans on Vasant Panchami believing that their
ancestors are accepting the food. The occasion is also celebrated by flying
kites and merrymaking.
