Maa Saraswati is widely revered as the goddess of art, speech, and wisdom. She is often depicted as a serene and elegant deity, representing the essence of wisdom and creativity. Her name, derived from Sanskrit, means the essence of the self – a reflection of her role as the flow of consciousness that breathes life into the universe. The word "Saraswati" translates to flowing water, symbolizing the way human thoughts circulate and inspire action.
In early Hinduism, Saraswati was closely associated with the Saraswati River, a sacred river known for its purity and life-giving properties. Just as the river nourished the land, Saraswati is believed to nourish human intellect and creativity.
The Symbolism of Maa Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati is depicted with four arms, each holding symbolic objects: the Vedas (sacred texts), a kamandalu (a water pot), a mala (a garland), and a veena (a musical instrument) which also brings her the name Veena Vadini Saraswati.
She is usually seen wearing a white sari with a blue border, signifying purity and knowledge. You’d often see her sitting on a lotus flower, accompanied by a peacock or the white swan who are believed to be her traditional companions symbolizing wisdom.
Why is Maa Saraswati Called the Goddess of Wisdom, Education, and the Arts?
Maa Saraswati is primarily revered for her association with knowledge and the arts. As the embodiment of speech, she represents the creative power of language and expression. In Hindu tradition, speech is considered the source of creation, as presented by the sacred sound "OM," which is believed to generate the universe. Saraswati’s role extends beyond mere inspiration; she is a guiding force in poetry, oratory, learning, and the arts.
The Mythological Stories of Goddess Saraswati
One of the most interesting stories about Saraswati revolves around her relationship with Lord Brahma, the creator god.
According to mythology, after creating the universe, Brahma found himself in chaos, after witnessing the lack of order and structure in the cosmos. Hereafter, out of his mouth emerged Saraswati, who helped organize and structure the cosmos in a systematic order. Everything in the universe including the sun, moon, planets, and stars was formed and aligned to initiate the cycle of days and seasons.
However, Brahma’s admiration for Saraswati soon turned into obsession. He was so fascinated by her radiant beauty and sharp intellect that he was determined to marry her. Saraswati on the other hand became so enraged by Brahma’s behaviour, that she chose to flee away from his gaze.
But Brahma didn’t stop here. He created additional heads to keep sight of her from all directions. At this point, Goddess Saraswati became so furious for being disrespectful towards her and refraining from his duty of establishing law and order in the universe that she cursed him that he would not be worshipped and respected like Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Saraswati Puja – Worship and Rituals
Saraswati Puja, also known as Basant Panchami, is celebrated with great fervor, especially in India. Falling on the fifth day of the Hindu lunar month of Magha, this festival marks the arrival of spring. On this day, you’d find the devotees dressed in yellow, which is believed to symbolize prosperity and wisdom and pray for success in their careers and other academic endeavors.
Students and professionals alike seek her blessings by placing their books and musical instruments near her idol. The festival also marks the beginning of the learning phase for children, with many parents introducing their kids to writing for the first time.
How to Perform Saraswati Puja at Home?
To perform Saraswati Puja at home, follow these steps:
- Set Up the Altar: Place an image or a Veena Vadini Saraswati idol in your puja room. Herein, make sure it faces the west direction so you can face the east while praying.
- Arrange Offerings: Include important books, the Geeta, and the Ramayana by her side. Light a diya (oil lamp) in front of the Maa Saraswati idol.
- Offer Items: Present offerings of sandalwood paste, new cloth, turmeric, kumkum, fruits, sweets, grains, betel leaves, and flowers.
- Recite Mantras: Chant Saraswati mantras like ॐ ऐं सरस्वत्यै ऐं नमः. or ॐ ऐं ह्रीं श्रीं वाग्देव्यै सरस्वत्यै नम:, concluding the puja ceremony, performing the aarti.
- Prepare Prasad: Offer food items like kheer, curd rice, and sugar cane, and then share it with family as prasad.
Takeaway
Goddess Saraswati’s influence extends far beyond India and Hindu mythology. She is also revered in countries like Japan, China, and Thailand, where her counterpart, Benzaiten, is worshipped. And in the ever-evolving world, the essence of Maa Saraswati remains a constant source of inspiration. Her presence in educational institutions, artistic circles, and spiritual practices highlights her role as the goddess of wisdom, arts, and learning. Whether you are a student, a scholar, or an artist, seeking her blessings can inspire creativity and enlightenment, guiding you toward greater knowledge and artistic expression.
