Kathmandu: Shree Panchami, observed on Magh Shukla Panchami, is being celebrated across the country today by worshipping Goddess Saraswati, revered as the deity of knowledge, wisdom and learning.

Worship of Goddess of Knowledge
It is widely believed that worshipping Goddess Saraswati on Basant Panchami enhances knowledge and intellect. From early morning, devotees have been gathering at Saraswati temples nationwide to offer prayers. On this auspicious day, young children who have not yet started school traditionally begin learning letters, with the belief that education initiated on this day leads to wisdom and success.

Significance of Saraswati Puja
Goddess Saraswati, described as fair-complexioned like the moon and holding a veena and a book, is worshipped under various names including Bharati, Sharada, Hanswahini, Bagishwari, Varadaini and Buddhidatri. Writers, artists, journalists, teachers and students worship their tools of learning—such as pens, books, brushes and musical instruments—while Tantrics worship the goddess as Taradevi for spiritual attainment.

Beginning of Spring Season
The day is also known as Vasant Panchami, marking the beginning of the spring season as the sun starts its northward journey and days gradually grow longer. Religious texts mention that worshipping Saraswati on this day and commencing studies brings knowledge, accomplishment and wisdom.

Auspicious Day with Restrictions This Year
Traditionally, social and religious ceremonies such as marriage, fasting and initiation rituals are considered permissible on this day without consulting an auspicious time. However, such ceremonies are not being performed this year due to the setting of Venus. Still, it remains customary for children to begin their education and undergo nose and ear piercing rituals on this occasion.

Devotees Throng Temples
Large numbers of devotees, especially students, have been visiting Saraswati temples at Swayambhu, Maitidevi and Neel Saraswati in Gairidhara in the Kathmandu Valley, as well as Lele in Lalitpur and other districts. It is believed that offering the traditional seven grains to the goddess without touching them with the teeth helps knowledge and wisdom flourish.

Spring Listening Ceremony at Hanumandhoka
On the occasion, the head of state traditionally participates in the ‘Basanta Shravan’ ceremony at Nasal Chowk of Hanumandhoka Durbar. According to Laxman Panthi, Executive Director of the Nepal Panchanga Nirikh Bikash Samiti, President Ram Chandra Poudel observed the ceremony at the auspicious time of 10:27 am today.

High-Level Participation
The Vice President, Prime Minister, ministers, National Assembly Speaker and members, heads and members of constitutional bodies, and provincial assembly members are scheduled to attend the Basanta Shravan ceremony, according to the Hanumandhoka Durbar Care Office, which stated that all preparations for the event have been completed.