Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami or Shri Panchami, is one of the most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals celebrated across India. The auspicious day marks the beginning of spring (Basant Ritu) and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, music, arts, and learning.
Basant Panchami 2026 Date
In 2026, Basant Panchami will be observed on Friday, January 23. The festival falls on the fifth day (Panchami) of the Hindu month of Magha and symbolises renewal, positivity, and the blossoming of nature.
Significance of Basant Panchami
Basant Panchami holds immense cultural and religious importance. It is believed that Goddess Saraswati manifested on this day, making it especially significant for students, teachers, scholars, artists, writers, and musicians. Devotees seek her blessings for wisdom, creativity, clarity of thought, and success in education and the arts.
Educational institutions, temples, and cultural organisations conduct special prayers, recitals, and programmes. Many families introduce young children to learning on this day through the ritual of Vidyarambh, marking their first step toward education.
The festival also celebrates the arrival of spring, a season associated with hope, fertility, and new beginnings. Yellow, symbolising energy, prosperity, and blooming mustard fields, dominates the celebrations.
Saraswati Puja Muhurat (Auspicious Time)
The most auspicious time for Saraswati Puja on January 23, 2026, is from 7:13 AM to 12:33 PM.
Traditional Celebrations Across India
- Wearing yellow or white attire
- Preparing festive sweets such as Kesari Halwa, Kesar Bhaat, and Boondi Ladoo
- Kite flying in many parts of North India
- Grand Saraswati Puja celebrations in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Bihar, with beautifully decorated pandals and idols
Homes and temples are adorned with marigold flowers, and alpana or rangoli is drawn using rice paste. Students often observe a short fast until the pushpanjali (offering of flowers).
Saraswati Puja Samagri (Items Required)
- Idol or image of Goddess Saraswati
- Yellow cloth, marigold and white flowers
- Fruits and traditional sweets
- Incense sticks, diya, ghee
- Turmeric, kumkum, sandalwood paste
- Books, notebooks, pens, and musical instruments
How to Worship Goddess Saraswati
Devotees are advised to wear yellow, white, or light-coloured clothing and avoid black or red. The puja should ideally be performed facing east or north. Offer yellow and white flowers, white sandalwood, and special prasadam such as kesar kheer or misri mixed with curd and lawa.
Basant Panchami is a celebration of knowledge, culture, and the joy of new beginnings—ushering in spring with devotion, colour, and hope.