Sri Panchami or Basanta Panchami

Sri Panchami announces the advent of the spring season in Nepal. On this day, a religious function known as the Basanta Sharwan is held at the court-yard of Hanuman Dhoka Palace. On this occasion Geet Govinda (verses written by poet Jaya Dev) is recited by the royal priest and hymns are sung by a concert of musicians accompanied by musical instruments. Formally the occasion used to be graced by the King which is now being replaced by the president due to the recent political changes in the country. This is a very particular day consecrated to honor Saraswati - the Goddess of learning, wisdom, music and art, throughout Nepal. Similarly, all the Saraswati shrines all over the Kingdom are filled with the crowd (devotees) of school children and students of all sorts on this particular day. Traditionally during this festival children are taught to write their first words. Apart from wisdom, Goddess Saraswati is also the prime deity for fine and performing arts and is believed to rain over the realm of speech, letters, arts and various branches of sciences. On this particular occasion worship are also made to tools such as pen, paper, pencils, ink and books as signs of reverences since such items are considered to be the tools of Goddess Saraswati. The day also bears particular significance as the most auspicious day for arranging weeding than any other period of the year. The streets and temples are therefore seen very colorful and teemed with people who gather round to mark the occasion or to organize the wedding ceremony.

Glance of Nepal