Basant Panchami, also celebrated as Saraswati Puja in West Bengal, is a much-awaited day for many young students in the state, who see it as a ‘Valentine’s Day’ of sorts – an opportunity to freely mingle with members of the opposite sex.
And so, they cast aside all that hinders true learning. Only too joyfully, students place all their text books, note pads, pens, pencils, reference books under the watchful eyes of the goddess; they then legitimately claim a day off from studies, as custom says one mustn’t study on this day.
While Ma Saraswati blesses these tools of learning, the young students set out to do what they can’t usually do (not without reproach) – while away time with friends, or pursue their love interest. Especially for love and its pursuits, there isn’t any day better than Saraswati Puja—most Bengalis would vouch for that. But what made youngsters seek out an alternative to ‘Valentine’s Day’?
Coincidentally, Saraswati Puja and Valentine's Day are being celebrated on the same day this year on 14th February, 2024.
Wishing everyone Saraswati Puja and Valentine's Day in advance.
