Happy Vasant Panchami today (January 29)! Vasant Panchami is observed in a variety of different traditions depending on various sects and regions of India. In some areas, kites are flown to celebrate the beginning of the spring season as ‘vasant” means “spring." Vasant Panchami is also a day in which many honor the god of love, Kamadeva (like Cupid), who is married to the goddess of spring, named Vasanta.
In other places, children are initiated into learning on this day. It is also an important occasion for worshiping one’s ancestors (pitri-tarpana). Some Hindus worship Lord Vishnu and Ma Ganga at this time. Many consider this day to be Sri Saraswati’s birthday. Bengalis call this festival “Saraswati Puja” and venerate the Goddess Saraswati on this day. Her murti (statue/image) is carried in procession and immersed in the holy Ganges.
"Saraswati" means “she of the stream, the flowing movement.” As the Vedic goddess of knowledge, science, music, and art, Saraswati ultimately represents the creative and inspirational aspect of Shakti. This day can be an important one for spiritual ceremonies and practices that help align us with this supreme creative power within. Anything important that we perform or initiate today is said to have the most favorable long-term consequences, and especially if this is related to learning, love matters, or any new creative endeavor
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