Saraswati Puja is a sacred Hindu ritual dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, arts, music, and learning. Celebrated primarily during Vasant Panchami, it is a day when devotees honor the goddess to seek her blessings for intellectual growth, creativity, and overall knowledge. The puja is especially important for students, teachers, and artists, as it is believed to enhance their skills and abilities.

The ritual begins with cleaning the house and setting up a clean altar or puja area. An idol or image of Goddess Saraswati, often depicted seated on a white swan and holding a veena (a musical instrument), is placed on the altar. The goddess is typically adorned with flowers, garlands, and white cloth, as white symbolizes purity, wisdom, and enlightenment.

Before starting the puja, devotees purify themselves by taking a bath and wearing clean clothes, often in shades of yellow, which is associated with knowledge and prosperity. The puja starts with the invocation of Lord Ganesha, seeking the removal of obstacles, followed by the worship of Goddess Saraswati. Flowers, fruits, incense sticks, and sweets like khichdi or laddus are offered as a mark of respect.

Devotees also offer books, musical instruments, and art supplies to the goddess, acknowledging that knowledge and learning are sacred and should be treated with reverence. Chanting of mantras such as Saraswati Vandana and Saraswati Ashtakshara Mantra (“Om Aim Saraswataye Namah”) is an essential part of the ritual.

The puja culminates with the Aarti, where devotees sing devotional songs to honor the goddess. Prasadam (offering) is distributed among family members.

Saraswati Puja is a day of seeking wisdom, academic success, and artistic inspiration, and it encourages the pursuit of knowledge in all forms.