Amidst all other goddesses in Hindu mythology, Saraswati is a prime goddess who has played a crucial role, depicted by various legends. She is the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, art, music and learning. Saraswati Puja is one of the significant events conducted in different parts of India such as West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, etc.
Saraswati Puja is a famous festival celebrated from the past to the present day. But many people might still not be aware of the importance of this event. If you are one among them, read this blog to know why Saraswati Puja is still important in this era.
What is the Significance of Saraswati Puja in 2023?
Saraswati Puja is a prime event that is celebrated in India, celebrated in the Hindu month of Magha. Welcoming the spring, Saraswati puja is a festival conducted during the harvest season.
Desires for Wisdom and Learning
Being a significance of knowledge and wisdom, the goddess Saraswati is a renowned embodiment of creativity, arts, and learning.
Cultural Significance
Giving value to creativity, arts and more, people consider Saraswati Puja as the best moment to conduct cultural activities such as music, art, dance and more.
Goddess Of Education
This festival is dedicated to educators and students seeking blessings to succeed in learning and education. Most schools, colleges and other educational organizations conduct Saraswati puja for sustainability.
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History Of Goddess Saraswati
Mythological Origin
The origin of the goddess Saraswati is portrayed in ancient Vedic literature. She is said to be the river goddess known for purifying and life-giving and desires fulfilling qualities. She is said to have a prominent role in epics such as Mahabharata and Ramayana as a deity of wisdom.
Based on Puranas, it is said that lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, has created the goddess Saraswati. But due to her unflattering beauty and intelligence, lord Brahma decided to marry her.
Symbolism of Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati is always depicted with four hands and looks graceful in white attire. Due to many scriptures, artworks and epics, she is depicted to be seated on a lotus. She holds Veena, representing creativity, arts and harmony. It is said that she captivates the demon's attention through the melodies that occur while she strung the strings of veena. In addition, her presence signifies the transformative energy. Like other deities, goddess Saraswati also plays a crucial role in balancing the universe and spreading harmony.
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Traditions Associated with Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati Idols at Home
Most devotees of Saraswati who conduct this festival often install an idol of Saraswati at their homes or place the idols in a public community for the event. The idol of the goddess Saraswati is decorated with ornaments, flowers, books, musical instruments, etc. These decorations signify her abilities and power in fulfilling wisdom, knowledge, and more.
Rituals and Puja
It doesn't matter what festival it is. People decorate and offer flowers to the gods or goddesses. But in Saraswati Puja, people also extend their offerings with books, sweets and more. To seek blessings from the goddess, children place their books, instruments, and other learning tools near their feet. It is a gesture to pray for wisdom and achievements.
The customs and puja start with the rituals conducted by the priest or a respected family member. The rituals are conducted by reciting hymns, and bhajans with lighting lamps. In some regions of the country, they also bless and sanctify the offerings such as books and tools.
Feast and Celebrations
Despite these rituals and traditions, Saraswati Puja is an occasion where families and friends come together to share the joy of togetherness. Like other festivals, it is also a festival to prepare and distribute sweets and a great feast.
As said before, it is an event for young people and children to showcase their talents through cultural activities and competitions organized on this day. Saraswati Puja is not only a religious day but also an enthusiastic event to embrace the importance of education, learning and wisdom and enhance cultural pride.
Saraswati Puja: Time to Seek Blessings
Being an exceptionally significant day from the past to the present age, It is one of the common festivals conducted by families and friends. Saraswati Puja aims to gain wisdom, and learning is one of the crucial reasons for enhancing the rich cultural heritage.
Also read: Top 5 Upcoming Festivals in India.
Let's learn more about the insights of the goddess Saraswati and celebrate the puja with great enthusiasm.
