Basant Panchami 2024 (India): To usher in spring, the Hindu festival of Basant Panchami is typically observed in February (though it can also transpire in late January). The date of occurrence is February 14 this year.
The name provides significant insight into the occasion of the festivities: “Panchami” means “five” and “Vasant” means “spring.” Therefore, this occasion occurs on the fifth day of the month of ‘Magha’ in the Hindu calendar, which occurs in late January or early February. Vasant Panchami is an alternative spelling of this festival in certain regions of India.
Basant Panchami: History
Although this occasion is observed by Hindus throughout India (and other regions of Asia), its significance varies among them. It signifies a harvest festival for certain individuals. Assumed by some, it represents the arrival of spring. On this day, some also venerate Saraswati, the Indian deity associated with wisdom, learning, music, art, speech, and knowledge.
One specific anecdote linked to this festival pertains to the renowned Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, who lived in the 4th century. Reportedly despondent over his wife’s rejection, he intended to kill himself by leaping into a river. Before he could complete the task, the goddess Saraswati emerged from the waters and instructed him to only immerse in them.
Upon immersing himself in the water, Kalidasa was endowed with profound wisdom, which subsequently transformed him into a renowned poet. Consequently, individuals also observe the benediction of Saraswati throughout this festival. In the hopes that this deity will grant them wisdom as well, devotees offer prayers to her.
Basant Panchami 2024: FAQs
What is another name for Basant Panchami?
Basant, which is an abbreviation for Vasant Panchami, can also be referred to as Saraswati Puja.
Where is Basant Panchami observed?
Hindus observe Basant Panchami throughout Nepal, Pakistan, India, and even Bali and Indonesia.
Observe the Basant Panchami fast.
Certain individuals choose to fast for the day, while students who partake in this occasion fast until the ‘pushpanjali’ period, which signifies the presentation of offerings to the deity.
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Basant Panchami 2024: Activities
Turn crimson
Consume saffron-infused rice, incorporate a pinch of turmeric into your cuisine, or purchase a lemon tart as examples. Experiment with clothing: Select Indian attire in this hue, or do any garments in the yellow color family. Arrange yellow-colored glassware, adorn it with potted yellow flowers, and tie a yellow bow around the cat.
Respect the deity
Saraswati is the embodiment of wisdom, learning, music, art, and discourse. Spend the day both commemorating and refining these abilities. Promote the development of others’ abilities in this domain as well.
Create a new engagement in advance for today.
Engaging in novel endeavors on this day is regarded as auspicious. Therefore, attempt something new—a class, a course, or even a romantic date.
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Five Facts about the Basant Panchami Festival
It precedes an additional festival.
Preparations commence for another significant Indian festival, Holika or Holi, forty days after Basant Panchami.
Festivities at Bali
‘Hari Raya Saraswati (great day of Saraswati)’ is the name given to this day by the Hindu communities of Indonesia and the island of Bali. It also signifies the start of the Pawukon calendar in Bali.
The capacity for learning
As part of the festivities, young children are introduced to the alphabet through a special ceremony called “Akshar-Abhyasam” or “Vidya-Arambham”.
Unique offerings
Students from every region of India present their stationery to statues and idols of Saraswati to obtain blessings in the respective academic domain.
Similar nation, identical celebration, distinct appellation
The regions of southern India refer to Basant Panchami as “Sri Panchami.”
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