Saraswati Pooja

The last three days of Navaratri are dedicated to Mother Saraswati. The first of these three days (21 October 2023) is called Saraswati Avahana (welcoming Mother Saraswati), and the third day (23 October 2023) is called Saraswati Visarjan (taking leaving of Mother Saraswati). Historically, Tamil speaking Hindus preferred to observe Saraswati Pooja on the third day, while Hindi speaking Hindus preferred the first day. This historical arrangement is respected and accommodated by the Sabha, even though the Sabha understands that the last three days are suitable for Saraswati Pooja. Incidentally, many Hindus consider the 10^th day of Navaratri (Vijay Dashmi) as Vidyarambha. Vijaya Dashami is celebrated for the victory of good over evil and denotes a time for all the positive beginnings for one and all. One of the significant rituals at this point is Ezhuthiniruthu or Vidyarambha, also called Aksharabhyasam (or the holy start of education) for toddlers who write their first letter on rice and sand. Since Goddess Saraswati is considered the Goddess of wisdom, the ceremony is dedicated to her and is usually conducted on the last day of Navaratri or Vijay Dashmi.

Updated: 25 January 2023