KATHMANDU, Nepal – Nepalis across the country are observing Shree Panchami on Tuesday paying homage to Saraswoti, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
The day is very auspicious for the students with children are being taught alphabets, and elders also begin their new lessons of art, music and in other creative fields. Goddess Saraswoti is worshipped in all temples and homes. Schools, colleges organize special programmes to worship Saraswoti. Books and pencils are placed on the feet of the goddess to worship on the day.
Shree Panchami is celebrated as per the lunar calendar on the fifth day of the waxing moon in the Nepali month of Magh every year.
The Basanta season begins on this day, and the festival is also referred as Basanta Panchami.
According to folk belief, if a person swallows seven rice grains, that are offered to the Goddess, s/he will become wise and knowledgeable. So, students and children clamor for the rice grains strewn around the idol.
Since the day is believed to be auspicious, marriage ceremonies and other religious functions are being carried out all over the country.