New Delhi, Feb 2 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt greetings to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja on Sunday.

In a message shared on X, President Murmu stated, "Warm wishes to all citizens on Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja! On this joyous festival, which celebrates education and wisdom, I wish happiness, prosperity, and knowledge to everyone.

Highlighting the importance of this day, she remarked, "I pray to Maa Saraswati to establish India as the knowledge hub of the world.

Basant Panchami, also referred to as Vasanta Panchami and Saraswati Puja, is a festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, marking the arrival of spring. It is celebrated in various parts of India with unique traditions.

This festival also signals the start of preparations for Holika and Holi, celebrated forty days later.

The Vasant Utsav on Panchami is observed forty days before the full bloom of spring, representing the transitional phase of the season. Basant Panchami is closely linked with the vivid yellow mustard fields in full bloom, a color profoundly associated with Goddess Saraswati.

On this day, individuals typically wear yellow outfits—saris, shirts, or accessories—and enjoy delicacies themed in yellow. Saffron is often incorporated into rice dishes, turning them into a festive yellow, which is relished during elaborate feasts.

People usually place an idol or image of the Goddess in their worship area after bathing it in water from the River Ganga and dressing the Goddess in yellow.

Temples and educational institutions honor the Goddess by dressing her idols in yellow and performing special prayers. Many schools and colleges hold morning pujas to seek Saraswati's blessings for knowledge and wisdom.

Cultural events, including poetic and musical gatherings, are organized in reverence to the Goddess of learning and the arts.