Religious Festivities Marked by Prayers for Education and Enlightenment

Saraswati Puja, a Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, is being celebrated with fervor and devotion in various parts of the country. From educational institutions to temples, private initiatives have organized pujas to honor the deity of knowledge, music, arts, and wisdom.

Since the morning of Wednesday (February 14), the resonating sounds of trumpets and conch shells have filled the air, creating a reverent atmosphere in the mandaps across the nation. In the city, Government Brajmohan College grounds witnessed Saraswati Puja being conducted in 23 mandaps, with participation from twenty faculties, higher secondary departments, Sanatan Vidyarthi Sangha, and central mandap.

Moreover, Saraswati Puja rituals were observed at prominent educational institutions such as Barisal University, Sher-e-Bangla Medical College, Government Women's College, and Amritlal Dey College. Students expressed their prayers to the goddess for education, enlightenment, and good fortune for all.

Saraswati Puja holds deep spiritual significance for Hindus, primarily celebrated in West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Assam, Odisha, and South India. It occurs on the fifth day of Spring (Krishna Paksha) in the month of January-February (Magh-Phalgun) or on the first day of spring, the fifth day of Magha.

Traditional Saraswati Puja rituals involve devotees waking up early for a holy bath, placing idols of Goddess Saraswati, offering white-colored flowers or garlands, sweets, fruits, and dressing in yellow-colored attire. Cultural programs, including music and dance, adorn the festivities, especially in South India.

Aarti ceremonies, conducted by priests twice daily, are integral parts of the Saraswati Puja rituals. Devotees gather to seek blessings from Goddess Saraswati, adorned with flowers, garlands, and traditional ornaments, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.

As Saraswati Puja celebrations continue, devotees express their reverence and devotion, embracing the spiritual essence of the festival and seeking blessings for wisdom, prosperity, and success in their educational pursuits.