Goddess Saraswati is the deity of knowledge, music, art and speech. Students worship her before exams, musicians before performances, and families before a child begins formal learning.
Saraswati Puja
Saraswati is worshipped during the last days of Navaratri (especially in South India), on Vasant Panchami (in North and East India) and by students throughout the year. Books, pens and instruments are placed before the Goddess and not used on the day of worship — a way of honouring learning itself.
Vidyarambham / Aksharabhyasam
Vidyarambham (Aksharabhyasam in Telugu) is the samskara in which a child, usually between two and five years old, writes their first letters. It is traditionally done on Vijayadashami, Vasant Panchami or another auspicious day chosen by the pandit.
- The family performs Ganapati puja and Saraswati puja.
- The child sits on the lap of a parent, grandparent or teacher.
- Guided by the elder, the child writes “Om” or “Om Namah Shivaya / Hari Sri Ganapataye Namah” in a plate of rice or sand, often with a gold ring on the tongue.
- The child is given books and a slate, and blessings from the elders.
Prayers for students
- “Saraswati namastubhyam varade kamarupini, vidyarambham karishyami siddhir bhavatu me sada”
- “Ya kundendu tushara hara dhavala…” — the Saraswati vandana
Temples for Aksharabhyasam
Basara (Gnana Saraswati temple) in Telangana and Wargal are especially popular, and many families choose their home with a pandit.
Book Saraswati Puja or Aksharabhyasam — at home, with a pandit who speaks your language.