Patna, Jan 23 (IANS) Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, and arts, is being worshipped with great reverence and enthusiasm across India on Friday, with Bihar witnessing especially vibrant celebrations on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami.
Idols of Goddess Saraswati have been installed in schools, colleges, homes, temples, and public pandals across the state. Since early morning, devotees have been thronging places of worship, with chants of “Jai Maa Saraswati” resonating throughout towns and cities.
Saraswati Puja holds a special place in Bihar, particularly among students.
School and college students, dressed in new clothes, offered their books, pens, and study materials at the feet of the Goddess, seeking her blessings for knowledge and success.
In several places, students stayed awake through the night to prepare for the puja and performed rituals with traditional mantras in the morning.
Large and beautifully decorated pandals have been set up across districts, including Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, Purnea, and Chhapra.
Patna is witnessing special fervour, with schools, colleges, and neighbourhoods installing artistic idols adorned with colourful lights, flowers, and traditional decorations.
Cultural programmes, bhajans, and Saraswati Vandana are being organised at several locations, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere.
Beyond its religious significance, Saraswati Puja has emerged as a symbol of social harmony and cultural unity.
People from different communities are also participating collectively in the preparations and celebrations.
At home, women are preparing traditional offerings such as kheer, halwa, boondi, khichdi, along with fruits and flowers. Children, in particular, are displaying great excitement and enthusiasm throughout the festivities.
One of the highlights of Saraswati Puja in Bihar remains the artistic excellence of the idols. Crafted from clay and plaster, the idols beautifully portray serenity, peace, and the essence of learning. This year, many artisans have opted for eco-friendly idols, reflecting growing awareness about environmental conservation.
Meanwhile, the administration has put in place adequate security and law-and-order arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations across the state.
On the occasion of Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes.
“People celebrate the arrival of spring, the king of seasons, with great enthusiasm and devotion, worshipping Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge. May you all celebrate the festival of Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja with mutual harmony. I wish that this festival brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to the state and that the light of knowledge spreads everywhere,” Kumar said.
Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha and Speaker of the Bihar Assembly Dr Prem Kumar performed a puja in the library located within the Assembly premises.
The Dy CM posted pictures on his X handle and wrote, “Today, in the library located within the Assembly premises, on the sacred occasion of Vasant Panchami, I had the good fortune to perform the ritual worship and adoration of the presiding deity of knowledge, wisdom, and speech, Goddess Mata Saraswati, alongside the Hon’ble Speaker of the Assembly, Shri @DrPremKrBiharji, and to receive her blessings. May the grace of Ma Sharade illuminate every heart with knowledge, discernment, and sound judgment, and may our Bihar continue to advance ceaselessly on the path of education, values, and progress – this is my prayer. Jai Ma Saraswati! Heartfelt wishes to all of you on Vasant Panchami.”
–IANS
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