Shri Saraswati Mataji

Saraswathi is the Goddess of learning and knowledge. She is described as dwelling in the tongue of her consort, Brahma, the Creator. She is therefore called Vaagiswari, the deity governing vaak or speech, and all intellectual activities, literature, poetry and the 64 arts in general. She is also called Shaaradha and Vaani. Knowledge is often spoken as pure light and all white. Saraswathi is pure white, wears white garments and white jewels and seated on a white lotus. The white swan is her vehicle.

Auspicious Days and Festivals

As Saraswathi is the Goddess of knowledge and wisdom we should pray to Her morning. Wednesdays and Fridays are important to Saraswathi. Saraswathi Puja and Vijaya Dasami are celebrated during Navratri. The last 3 days of Navratri dedicated to Saraswathi. These days are dedicated for prayers to Saraswathi success in all pursuits of knowledge and for success in one's chosen profession.

Special Offerings

Abishekams and special decorations with turmeric powder and beads are offered to Saraswathi. A variety of preparations made of boiled lentils, paayasam and vada are given as special offerings during the puja. The function to initiate children to the learning process is called Vidhyaarambam. This is performed by praying to Saraswathi and making the children write the first alphabet in their mother tongue in rice.

Maheronline