Saraswati Puja Fast

Goddess Saraswati

Hindu

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Vasant Panchami (Shukla Panchami of Magh) is celebrated across India but in Bengal and Odisha it is the greatest Saraswati worship of the year. Students, artists, and musicians fast until the puja is complete, then receive prasad as Saraswati's blessing on their studies and creative endeavours. Books and instruments are placed at her feet.

Dates 2026–2027

January 23, 2026

Mantra

ওঁ সরস্বত্যৈ নমঃ

Om Saraswatyai Namaha

Om Saraswatyai Namaha — I bow to Goddess Saraswati, the divine embodiment of knowledge, music, and art

✦ Special Note

On this day, children are introduced to writing for the first time in a ceremony called Haate Khori (initiating literacy). Students do not study the night before — books are placed at Saraswati's feet. Wearing yellow (the colour of spring) is traditional. After puja, devotees visit neighbouring schools and colleges for darshan of large pandal installations.

Foods Allowed

Fruits of all kindsBanana chips (made with sendha namak and ghee/coconut oil)All fresh fruits — including banana, apple, mango, papaya, pomegranate, grapes, pear, chikoo, guava, watermelon, orange, and seasonal fruitsMilk and dairyChira (flattened rice) — the traditional Vasant Panchami offeringCoconut and naru (sweets)Water

Foods to Avoid

Non-vegetarian foodOnion and garlicCooked grain meals until puja is completeAlcohol

Meal Idea

Chira (flattened rice) with milk and fruits — the traditional Vasant Panchami prasad blessed by Saraswati

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