Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, marks the arrival of spring and celebrates the birth anniversary of Goddess Saraswati, the revered Hindu deity of wisdom, knowledge, music and art.
The festival, which falls in the Hindu month of Magha, symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, learning and creativity.
Yellow is the color of Basant Panchami – people dress in yellow clothing and cook food with saffron/turmeric.
When is Basant Panchami?
Basant Panchami means “spring” and the fifth day (Panchami). It falls in the bright half of the lunar month of Magha (January–February).
In 2026, Basant Panchami will be celebrated on Thursday, January 23.
According to Drika Panchang, Panchami Tithi starts on January 23rd at 02:28 AM and ends on January 24th at 01:46 AM. The auspicious timing for Saraswati Puja or Vasant Panchami Muhurat is from 07:13 AM to 12:33 PM, it lasts for 05 hours and 20 minutes.
The moment of Vasant Panchami Madhyahna is scheduled at 12:33 PM.
Saraswati Puja is observed in states like Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam, while in North India the festival is marked by flying kites.
Basant Panchami: Meaning and History
According to mythological legend, Goddess Saraswati was created by Lord Brahma to bring order, wisdom and harmony to the universe. Since then, this day has been dedicated to her worship.
Historically, Basant Panchami was celebrated in gurukuls where children were introduced to education through the Vidyarambh ceremony.
In several regions, this festival is associated with agricultural cycles and seasonal changes.
