Magh Shukla Panchami marks an annual celebration dedicated to the veneration of Goddess Saraswati, the divine embodiment of wisdom and knowledge. Almost all schoolchildren start their day by offering prayers to Goddess Saraswati. This day is referred to as Shri Panchami, marking the onset of the two months of Shishir Ritu in the months of Magh and Falgun. It is believed that worshiping Saraswati on Basanta Panchami brings an increase in knowledge and intelligence.
Devotees throng Saraswati temples throughout the country to offer their prayers. The tradition of initiating small children into learning on this day has become widespread. It is believed that this day instills confidence in students to embark on the journey of education. In the past, schools used to communicate with parents through letters or transmit information to officially commence education. This practice continues, with small children being enrolled in schools starting today.
The day is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati for the attainment of knowledge, wisdom, and discernment. According to Hindu religious texts and Puranas, it is believed that Brahma invited Goddess Saraswati to participate in the creation of the world on the day of Magh Shukla Panchami.
On this day, students, along with teachers and scholars, celebrate the festival as a joyous occasion. Rituals such as Annaprasan (the first feeding of solid food to infants) are also conducted. It is considered inauspicious to view the moon on this day for activities like weddings or moving into a new house. In the city of Janakpur, various educational institutions, along with the Toltol area, install artistic statues of Goddess Saraswati and conduct worship ceremonies, creating a festive atmosphere.
Students begin their day by taking a bath, placing their books, notebooks, and pens near the image of Goddess Saraswati, and then offering prayers. As an offering to Saraswati, devotees present items like barley, bananas, oranges, and gram, along with various fruits, flowers, and sweets.
