With kites in the air and crowds in bright yellow clothing, Basant Panchami is a celebration of the onset of the spring season. The day marks the worship of Goddess Saraswati, an Indian deity who signifies art, music, and education. Worshippers perform various rituals and prayers on this day. 

This year’s Basant Panchami begins from 3:47 am today and will conclude at 3:46 am on February 6. 

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According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the Magh month (usually during late January or February). Basant Panchami comes from the word ‘Basant’, meaning spring, and ‘Panchami’, which means the fifth day. 

The auspicious timings of the day will be from 7:08 am to 12:36 pm, according to the drikpanchang.

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One can perform rituals and offer prayers throughout the day, although many do so during the morning hours. 

Prayer items include incense sticks, rice, scented orange powder, sandalwood, ghee, turmeric, jaggery, holy water, and fruits. 

During the ritual, one can offer yellow flowers and garlands, kheer, ladoos, malpua, and yellow powder while chanting. One can also listen to the story of the goddess and perform an arti.

The day is observed throughout the country in various ways. While children offer their books to the idols of the goddess for blessings, adults wear yellow coloured clothing and prepare traditional dishes. In parts of West Bengal, the day is celebrated as Saraswati Puja. In the southern parts, the festival is known as Sri Panchami. In states like Gujarat, people exchange gifts of mango leaves, garlands, and bouquets. 

According to the Panchang, the festival began when Goddess Saraswati appeared on the fifth day of the month of Magh. The goddess represents art, music, skills, and knowledge. She is also known as Vagdevi, Maa Sharda, Veenavadani, Bagishwar, and Bhagwati. 

According to the Hindu culture, worshiping the goddess offers educational and career-based success.