Basant Panchami is being celebrated on the second of February. It is a festival, when we welcome spring and worship Saraswati.

It is also called Saraswati Puja. It is usually observed in late January or early February. Likewise, it is known as the King of all seasons. Since it is early greetings to spring. It marks the gradual transition towards the full bloom of spring. We wear Yellow and are not supposed to touch our books. We worship them. Yellow is the color of Saraswati, who represents creativity, knowledge and it is the color of the ripening mustard fields all over in northern India.

Basant is likewise associated with Kamadev, the Hindu god of love and his consort, Rati. Kamadev was responsible for awakening Shiva from his deep meditation, to help Parvati win his love. Additionally, it is the awakening of the Earth’s desire and the renewal of life.

Another story associated with Basant is the sages wanted to awaken Shiva, and they requested Kamadev to create desire in him. Kamadev shot the arrow of love at him and his third eye opened, and a fireball was unleashed which reduced Kamadev to ashes.

Kamadev returned to life on the day of Basant Panchami, after Shiva got married to Parvati. Kamadev and his wife, Rati are also worshipped on this day. The connection is the arrival of spring and new life and new beginnings. It also means that one seeks blessings for a joyful and fruitful life.

Basant inspires happy activities. Children are encouraged to write their first words with their fingers. Music and dance celebrations happen. Kites are flown.

On this day, one celebrates Saraswati, Shiva and Parvati and Kamadev and Rati.

Aim Hrim Klim