Basant Panchami 2018: the lowdown on Basant Panchami celebration in 5 Indian states

When we think about Basant Panchami 2018, a few things automatically come to mind – yellow flowers, yellow festive clothes and yellow sweets for performing Saraswati Puja. This day falls on the fifth day of the waxing phase of moon in the Hindu month of Magh. It is the birthday of the Hindu Goddess of Learning and Arts, Goddess Saraswati. But, as we all know, this spring festival is not region specific, and extends far into other parts of India. So, up ahead, we are sharing interesting bits on Basant Panchami celebration in different Indian states so that you consider planning a trip when it's time to hit the road for the forthcoming celebrations.
Uttarkashi


In the upper reaches of the Himalayas, the farming community decorates the main door of their home with yellow flowers to welcome the season of sowing crops. Yellow clothes are worn, and dishes made of saffron-hued rice, which is relished to celebrate the arrival of spring.
Punjab and Haryana


Basant Panchami in these two north Indian states cannot be complete without kite flying. Spring carnivals are held at different places, women sing and dance in merriment on folk songs, and public feasts are held in Sikh Gurudwaras.

Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh


The patron goddess of arts and learning, Goddess Saraswati, is worshipped in every nook and cranny of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The yellow colour, known for its holiness, pervades Basant Panchami celebrations in Rajasthan and UP. The goddess is worshipped in schools, where art competitions are organised, poetry recitation and classic Basant Panchami songs are sung to honour the goddess.

Bihar


The devout in Bihar observe Basant Panchami by waking up at dawn, taking a bath, dressing up in yellow clothing, anointing their forehead with turmeric, and offering prayers to the Sun god and Goddess Saraswati. Prayers are held in schools, colleges, hermitages, and places of worship.

West Bengal


The Bengali community, known for its sheer liking for fine arts, in all parts of India get together with enthusiasm to celebrate the festival. But, the celebrations held in West Bengal are of a different level. Grand pandals are erected for Saraswati Puja and her idol is worshipped duly with sacred rites and offerings. Articles associated with learning like pens, notebooks, pencils etc. are offered to the goddess for her blessings before they could be used by the students. On this day, children are formally inducted in to learning. Folk music fests and cultural dance programs are organised to mark the day.