Mythology of Vasant Panchami — Saraswati Puja History and Legends

Vasant Panchami is celebrated on the eve of the birthday of Goddess Saraswati. It has many stories related to its celebration and read the below mythological stories. It is believed that on this day Goddess Saraswati was born. The story of Saraswati puja is related to ‘Brahma Vaivarta Purana’ and ‘Matsya Purana’.

A popular folklore that’s associated with the festival is that of the legendary poet Kalidasa. As per the story, Kalidasa was a simpleton and was tricked into marrying a princess who didn’t respect him. A dejected Kalidasa tried to take his life but just before he could commit suicide, the goddess Saraswati appeared in front of him and asked him to take a dip in the river. The man did as he was told, and emerged from the water an intelligent, knowledgeable and cultured person, who would eventually become a renowned poet. Which is why on this day, the goddess is worshipped so that she may bestow the gift of knowledge to her devotees.

Saraswati plays the veena, the symbol of divine music, holding the book of inner knowledge and the mala as the power of mantra. She has a charming human form, diversely portrayed in painting and sculpture throughout the centuries. She rides the swan of elegant movements, or the peacock.

There are numerous stories which people believe depending on their region.

Most widely accepted mythology: Saraswati evolved from the mouth of Lord Brahma on this particular day. So much so was her beauty and elegance that Brahma himself fell for her. To know this interesting mythological story in detail you can refer the article. “Brahma’sHead Chopped Off — Who Is The Girl Behind?“

Western India region people believe: She is believed to be the daughter of Lord Surya and hence is known as ‘Surya Kanya’. She is also said to be married to Kartikeya and is related with lions and peacocks.

Eastern India region people believe: She is said to be the daughter of Goddess Parvati. People say that she was one of the three wives of Lord Vishnu — Saraswati, Ganga, and Lakshmi.

Start Of 40 Days Before Holi

It is believed that this is the day when Goddess Rati went into severe penance for a duration of 40 days after Lord Shiva turned her husband Kamadeva into ashes. Her penance brought colours later and hence her husband was revived from the curse. On the day of Basant Panchami, Shiva finally relented and brought Kamadeva back to life. Which is why Kamadeva, the god of love and desire, is worshipped along with his wife Rati on this day.

The Source Of Life Of Ohe Aryans

Yet another legend elucidates the observation of this festival since the Aryan era. It is believed that the Aryans travelled through Khyber Pass and crossed the Saraswati River to reach India. When they settled in, the Saraswati River became an important source of life for them, so the celebration became a routine. Read more... Mythology of Vasant Panchami

Know More About Vasant Panchami ( Saraswati Puja)

Saraswati Puja Date, Timing and Puja Vidhi

Significance of Saraswati Puja (Vasant Panchami)

Rituals of Saraswati Puja (Vasant Panchami)

Mantras for Vasant Panchami — Maa Saraswati Vandana

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Originally published at rgyan.com.