Saraswati Puja, a major religious festival of the Hindu community, will be celebrated across the country today with devotion, festivity and fervour.
Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge, is worshipped by devotees -- particularly students -- at educational institutions and temples.
The celebration falls annually on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Magh, marking the birth of Goddess Saraswati. The day is known as “Vasant Panchami”.
The puja will begin in the morning, followed by the offering of “anjali”, a ritual offering of flowers.
On the auspicious day, children are initiated into learning through “hatekhori”, typically with a slate and chalk in hand.
Later, prasad, or blessed food offerings, will be distributed among devotees.
Goddess Saraswati embodies power, creativity and inspiration, appearing when nature is at its most vibrant.
She is depicted as a graceful woman with a crescent moon on her brow, riding a swan or peacock, or seated on a lotus.
The largest celebration will take place at Jagannath Hall of Dhaka University, where thousands of devotees are expected to join rituals and visit pandals set up on the dormitory playground.
According to a press release, 76 puja mandaps have been set up under the supervision of the Jagannath Hall administration.
The programme will feature rituals, cultural events, devotional music and offerings, reflecting the hall’s long‑standing Saraswati Puja tradition.
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus yesterday issued a message extending his heartfelt greetings and congratulations to members of the Hindu community on this occasion.
In his message, he said Bangladesh is a shining example of communal harmony where, for thousands of years, people of all religions and ethnicities have lived together in mutual respect and amity.
“This country belongs to all of us. Bangladesh is a safe and peaceful homeland for everyone, irrespective of religion or caste,” he said.
FP/MI
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