On the occasion of Vasant Panchami, a significant number of devotees gathered at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar to take a holy dip in the Ganga and offer prayers to Maa Saraswati. The religious city was filled with an influx of devotees from across the country, many of whom participated in charitable acts and performed rituals to mark the auspicious day.
Vasant Panchami, celebrated as the birth anniversary of Maa Saraswati, holds special importance in Hindu tradition. Devotees believe that bathing in the Ganga on this day brings spiritual purity and divine blessings. Many were seen offering prayers, taking part in the Ganga aarti, and seeking Maa Saraswati’s blessings for knowledge and success.
Pallavi, a devotee, expressed her joy: “It was a wonderful experience coming here. The darshan was great, and I thoroughly enjoyed the Ganga aarti. The arrangements and security were impressive. I’ll definitely bring my family here soon.”
Sunil Bhat, a Kashmiri Pandit, shared his connection to the experience: “As a Kashmiri Pandit, I felt a deep connection. Our family had a great time, and the serenity of the Ganga Aarti was truly special. The enthusiasm around the bath and aarti was palpable. It’s such a calming place.”
Promila, another devotee, said, “The atmosphere here is beautiful, and the excitement is contagious. Taking a dip on Vasant Panchami feels like a privilege. The devotion of everyone here is inspiring. The Ganga aarti was exhilarating.”
Sanjiv, reflecting on his experience, said, “We had been looking forward to this for a long time, and it exceeded our expectations. Watching the aarti with my family was so special. The collective energy of the crowd was truly moving.”
Meenakshi shared a similar sentiment: “The Ganga bath was incredible. Watching the aarti brought me peace. I feel purified, as if all my sins have been washed away. The energy here is electric, and the enthusiasm of everyone is infectious. I’m so glad we brought our parents along.”
Meanwhile, in Prayagraj, preparations for the upcoming Vasant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan) on February 3 are in full swing, with authorities ensuring enhanced arrangements for devotees at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.
Vasant Panchami, also known as Basant Panchami or Saraswati Panchami, marks the first day of spring and is a celebration of Maa Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts. The festival also marks the beginning of preparations for Holi, which takes place forty days after the event.
