Kathmandu: On February 3rd in Kathmandu, Nepal, many toddlers began their educational journey by inscribing their first words with chalk on the walls of a Saraswati Temple, coinciding with Basanta Panchami, also known as Saraswati Pooja. This festival, celebrated on the Shukla Panchami of the Nepali month, marks the onset of spring and is rooted in the belief that worshipping the goddess Saraswati leads to academic success.
Adesh Shrestha, a father of two, shared that special pooja ceremonies were held at Saraswati Temples to honor the Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom. Families visited the temple early in the morning, praying for progress in studies and mindfulness, a sentiment that applies to both children and adults. Following Hindu traditions, they believe that visiting the temple can enhance educational pursuits.
Students of all ages climbed to the hilltop temple at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Swayambhunath to pay their respects to Goddess Saraswati. The festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the waxing moon in the month of Magh according to the Nepali lunar calendar, is a significant occasion for students.
In his Basanta Panchami message, Nepali President Ram Chandra Paudel highlighted the festival’s role in energizing lives and inspiring innovation. He underscored the importance of worshipping Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of wisdom, knowledge, and music, and expressed hope that Saraswati Pooja would help preserve and promote Nepal’s rich cultural heritage while fostering unity amid its social and cultural diversity.