Vasanta Panchami

Goddess SaraswatiA holiday in honor of the Goddess Saraswati, the patroness of science and art. It is celebrated in the month of Magha (January-February).

Vasant Panchami is also called Sri Panchami. This holiday is most important in Bengal. The goddess Saraswati protects scientists and artists.
Legend has it that on this day Lord Shiva burned the god of love Kamadeva when he broke his meditation.

In the temples dedicated to Saraswati, books, musical instruments, etc. are placed on her image. On this day, the color yellow is especially important. The goddess Saraswati is dressed in yellow robes and prays to her. Men and women also prefer to wear yellow clothes. Sweets of yellow shades are exchanged with relatives and friends. The time of this holiday is considered favorable for the beginning of education of children. In schools, colleges and other educational institutions, there are special forms of worship of the goddess Saraswati.

The festival is also popular in North India and Punjab, where mustard is harvested.