Basant Panchami, the Hindu festival is celebrated across the country with zeal and prosperity. This year it will be celebrated on January 21. According to the Hindu calendar, Basant Panchami festival falls on the fifth day (Panchami) of the Hindu month of Magha. The festival is usually considered to mark the onset of spring in India. Basant Panchami is said to be an extremely auspicious day, as the devotees worship the goddess Saraswati, daughter of goddess Durga. There is an interesting history behind the reason for why we celebrate Basant Panchami. As per a popular belief, goddess Saraswati, who is said to be the deity of knowledge, music, arts, science and technology, was born on this day. Hence people are often seen celebrating Saraswati Puja on Basant Panchami. Another popular legend is that the day is celebrated to honour the legendary poet Kalidasa. As per a folklore, Lord Brahma created the universe on this day.
Usually, people celebrate by keeping a fast on the day. The term Vasant Panchami or Basant Panchami has no relation with Vasant ritu. Since the festival falls in the month of Magha, which happens to be a month of Shishir ritu. However, since the sun’s warmth is at its peak on this day, symbolises the onset of spring season. People who celebrate the auspicious day can be seen wearing yellow garments.
In many areas of the country, people celebrate by flying kites. In parts of Rajasthan, people can be seen wearing jasmine garlands on this day. People usually perform Saraswati Puja during Purvahna Kala, that is the time between the sunrise and the midday.
The list of stories relating to Basant Panchami is endless. However, an interesting aspect is that the love connection with this day. The story is about Shringara Rasam, which is all about love, attraction and beauty. As per the mythology, Kamdeva’s wife Rati did an arduous 40 days of penance to bring her husband back. Kamdeva was turned to ashes by Lord Shiva. It was on the day of Basant Panchami, Shiva brought Kamdeva back to life. This is why, the god of love and desire, Kamdeva is worshipped with his wife Rati on Basant Panchami.
The significance of Basant Panchami is huge in Hindu culture. The day is considered very auspicious to start any work. The day is also considered very auspicious to get married or perform house warming ceremony (griha pravesh) on the day of Basant Panchami.
We at Financial Express wish you and your loved ones, a very Happy Basant Panchami!