Bhubaneswar: Odisha turned festive on Friday as Saraswati Puja was celebrated across the state with devotion and enthusiasm. The festival, which coincided with Vasant Panchami, saw devotees offering prayers to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, and learning.
Women and girls were seen dressed in yellow sarees, while men and boys opted for traditional attire. Homes, educational institutions, and community spaces were decorated with flowers and rangoli, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Devotees offered prayers and flowers to seek the goddess’s blessings for wisdom and prosperity.
Students took part in puja ceremonies at schools, colleges, clubs, and homes. Priests chanted Vedic hymns as students placed their books, pens, and musical instruments near the idol, seeking blessings for success in education and creative pursuits.
A significant tradition associated with Saraswati Puja is the initiation of young children into learning. Many families conducted special ceremonies where children wrote their first letters, marking an auspicious start to their educational journey.
Across Odisha, educational institutions and local communities came together to celebrate the festival, reflecting the deep cultural importance of Saraswati Puja and its association with learning and knowledge.
