Saraswati : the Goddess of knowledge, music, arts & science

Goddess Saraswati is represented as a graceful woman in white, a symbol of purity and peace. She is the Goddess, who signifies knowledge, learning, art and culture.
The Mythology:
In the Vedas, Goddess Saraswati is referred to as the water deity and is revered for her purifying and enriching powers. The Goddess of knowledge and learning is said to have invented Sanskrit - the language of the Brahmins, of scriptures and scholars. It is also believed that it was Goddess Saraswati, who discovered 'amrit' in the Himalayas and brought it to the demigods. She is said to be identical with Viraj being created out of the substance of Purusha or Prajapati and thus is the instrument of creation. As Brahma's wife, she provides the power to execute what Brahma conceives with his creative intelligence. She is the goddess of all the creative arts and in particular, of poetry and music, learning and science.
The Celebration of Saraswati Puja:
Saraswati puja is celebrated throughout the country. Saraswati is the Goddess of Knowledge and is generally worshipped by the students, usually at their home. Students place all their books and their pens at the deity's feet, which they would use during the final examination for the whole day. Next day, they collect them, write “Om Saraswatya Namah” on a piece of paper and then start studying.The festivities that accompany Saraswati puja are a part of the social celebrations. Young girls are seen clad in yellow saries. Pushpanjali (offering flowers to the Goddess along with the chanting of hymns) are offered. Bright palash flowers considered to be a part of the worship, are offered to the deity.Young people enjoy the day with each other. Cultural programs are staged at night. The Goddess, who is the patron of music, culture and learning is revered by singers and musicians with great devotion.

Posted in: Bengali's Festivals