Saraswati Pooja

English meaning of the festival

Saraswati Pooja is a festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess Saraswati. She is revered as the deity of knowledge, arts, music, wisdom, speech, and learning. Her name is derived from the Sanskrit words “Saras,” meaning a body of water or speech, and “vati,” meaning woman, thus signifying the “goddess of speech” or “essence of self.”

How the date is decided annually

Saraswati Pooja is observed during Navaratri, specifically during the last three days of the festival, which are dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati. The date is determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar, with the specific observance taking place on the eighth or ninth day of the nine-night festival. This is different from the Saraswati Puja celebrated in late January or early February on the fifth day of the Hindu month of Magha, also known as Vasant Panchami.

Significance of the festival to Hinduism

Saraswati Pooja holds great significance in Hinduism as it celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. The worship of Saraswati during Navaratri symbolises the final stage of the spiritual journey, where, after overcoming negative tendencies (Durga) and acquiring virtues and prosperity (Lakshmi), a person seeks to gain divine knowledge and enlightenment. It is believed that worshipping her can activate the “Medha Nadi,” an intellectual channel that sharpens understanding and improves focus.

How to observe/practice

On this day, devotees often observe a fast and perform a puja (worship ceremony). It is customary to place books, musical instruments, and other items related to learning and the arts in front of the goddess’s idol or picture. This is done as a sign of respect and to seek her blessings for success in academic or creative pursuits. People wear white or yellow-coloured clothing, as these colours are associated with purity, peace, and knowledge. Offerings of white flowers, sweets, and fruits are made. The day is also seen as an auspicious time for children to start their formal education in a ceremony known as Vidyarambha.