Across India, the celebration of Basant Panchami shone brightly this year, with each region showcasing unique and grand events honoring the goddess Saraswati. Known for her association with learning, music, and the arts, Saraswati was celebrated with fervor, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the promise of new beginnings.
One of the most remarkable displays was seen in Maheshtala, West Bengal, where artisans unveiled a monumental 111-foot murti of Saraswati Mata at the Batanagar locality. This colossal idol, crafted from bamboo, jute, thermocol, and paper, took over 200 artisans three months to complete. Gopal Saha, the event's organizer, described the experience as one filled with challenges, stating, "The murti was crafted within three months. Over 200 artisans created the statue. Making this statue was a huge challenge, but we completed it.”
The grand celebration drew nearly 1.5 lakh devotees, all eagerly gathering to witness the impressive idol. Organizers put significant effort to manage crowd control and ensured safety throughout the event, which was marked by life and creativity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu extended their wishes to the nation, invoking blessings for wisdom and prosperity during this auspicious occasion. Modi expressed hopes for collective well-being, recognizing Basant Panchami as a time for revitalization and community spirit.
Meanwhile, Prayagraj, known for its sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, became another focal point for the day’s celebrations. Thousands of devotees participated eagerly, taking holy dips at the Triveni Sangam. Notable figures, including Kailashanand Giri Maharaj of Niranjani Akhara, observed the ceremonial bathing known as 'Amrit Snan.' He declared, "The 'snan' is very grand and everyone is very happy and are giving blessings to the government.” The state’s elaborate arrangements received accolades for ensuring safety and comfort for the pilgrims. Many devotees expressed their satisfaction with the preparations, with enthusiastic remarks about the overall experience.
Over 340 million devotees have participated since the Maha Kumbh Mela began, showcasing the immense scale and significance of these religious practices. The presence of more than 1 million Kalpwasis, individuals engaged in rigorous month-long austerities, added to the vibrant atmosphere. This magnificent gathering signifies the deeply rooted traditions and communal harmony inherent to such festivals.
Insights from Tripura reveal how regional celebrations echoed similar sentiments. Chief Minister Manik Saha uncovered a grand 40-foot idol of the goddess Saraswati at the Agartala Municipal Corporation. He noted the importance of the day for students and the community at large, emphasizing, "Everyone keeps waiting for this day, especially students; this day is very important for them.”
The event garnered significant attention this year, with vibrant fairs complementing the traditional religious observance. CM Saha also commended the organizers for their initiative to honor elderly community members over the age of 70, fostering respect and acknowledgment within society.
Padmanava Saha, a social activist involved with the celebrations, reflected on the growth of the festivities within the community, stating, "This puja has been inaugurated by our honourable Chief Minister Manik Saha, and everyone here is celebrating with great joy and happiness.” Given the event's inception year noted as 2021, it has quickly become emblematic of cultural significance and communal celebration.
Overall, Basant Panchami serves as more than just a religious observance; it binds communities together, reigniting cultural pride and showcasing artistic talent, as seen through regional efforts across India. This year's celebrations highlighted not only the reverence for Maa Saraswati but also the unity present among the diverse populations engaging in this vibrant tradition.