Mother Saraswati is regarded as the source of wisdom, knowledge and creativity of art and music for human being, according to Hindu philosophy. Although these human qualities are acquired throughout a lifetime, they are of special significance to the youth because this part of our lives is devoted to learning. That is why worshipping Mother Saraswati is the most popular puja among the youth. Mother Saraswati is revered in all parts of India, and in West Bengal specially, her puja is celebrated in almost every school and college. A very popular part of the Saraswati Puja celebrations among Bengalees is “Hatekhari”, when parents introduce their toddlers to their first ever experience of writing alphabet.

According to Hindu mythology, Mother Saraswati was born of the wishes of Lord Brahma, the creator of the world. But the most popular belief is that she is the daughter of God Shiva and Goddess Durga. That is why, when we celebrate Durga Puja, we see her image next to Mother Durga, helping her mother to destroy the demon, Mahishasur.  

In historical significance, Mother Saraswati is associated with the ancient river Saraswati. We learn from the glory days of Vedic times that many “Rishis” acquired a vast amount of knowledge of the universe. This knowledge was passed on by the “Rishis” to other scholars in educational institutions, called “Ashrams”. Many such learning institutions were located on the banks of river Saraswati. White swans lived on the river and white lotus flowers blossomed. The sacredness of such an atmosphere created a Goddess of Learning – Mother Saraswati. The image of Mother’s body is white, representing purity and sanctity. She is sitting or standing on a white lotus flower holding a white musical instrument “Veena” in her hand. A white swan is considered her “Bahan” or carrier.

According to Hindu calendar, Saraswati Puja is performed on “Basanta Panchami”, fifth day after the new moon that may happen in the month of “Maagh” or “Falgun”. By celebrating Saraswati Puja, we try to concentrate on learning the good qualities of life, try to improve ourselves and be better children of our Mother.

Guru Chakravarty