Basant Panchami
Vasant Panchami also spelled Basant Panchami, is a festival that marks the preliminary preparations for the arrival of spring, celebrated by people in various ways depending upon the region in the Indian subcontinent. The Vasant Panchami also marks the start of preparation for Holika and Holi, which take place forty days later. The Vasant Utsava (festival) on Panchami is celebrated forty days before Spring, because any season's transition period is 40 days, and after that, the season comes into full bloom.
Vasant Panchami is celebrated every year on the fifth day of the bright half of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Magha, which typically falls in late January or February.
Spring is known as the "King of all Seasons", so the festival commences forty days in advance. It is generally winter-like in northern India, and more spring-like in central and western parts of India on Vasant Panchami, which gives credence to the fact that Spring is in full bloom 40 days after the Vasant Panchami day.
The festival is particularly observed by Hindus in the Indian subcontinent, notably India and Nepal, it's also has been a historical tradition of Sikhs as well. In southern states, the same day is called Sri Panchami.
How it is being celebrated?
Wearing saree is a common practice that is followed on this day. Many schools and colleges observe this day by worshipping an idol of the goddess. After the puja is over, Prasad is offered to the students and their family members followed by a delicious meal. Kesar Halwa and Khichdi are some of the delicacies that are served on Vasant Panchami. Students flock to their respective schools and colleges to participate in this festival. A plethora of cultural events take place on this day.
It also marks the harvest time of the mustard crop and hence there’s a special significance of yellow. Women dress up in yellow attire and traditional sweets are being served which are yellow.
