The Hindu community across Bangladesh is celebrating Saraswati Puja today (Friday), honoring the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and culture with immense enthusiasm and religious spirit.

The festival, also known as Basant Panchami, falls on the Panchami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha, marking a day when devotees seek divine blessings for their pursuit of wisdom and creativity.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus issued a formal message on the occasion, extending his warm greetings to the Hindu community and emphasizing the spirit of communal harmony.

The day began in temples, homes, and educational institutions with the performance of puja rituals followed by the offering of "Anjali."

A central highlight of the celebration is "Hatekhori," a traditional ritual where toddlers are introduced to the world of learning by being given a slate and chalk to scribble their first letters.

According to Hindu faith, Goddess Saraswati represents inspiration and creativity, often depicted as a graceful figure riding a swan or peacock, or seated upon a lotus flower. Dhaka University’s Jagannath Hall remains the epicenter of the most vibrant celebrations in the capital.

This year, students from 74 different departments have erected 74 unique puja pandals across the dormitory’s playground, attracting a massive throng of devotees and visitors.

Jagannath Hall Provost Debashis Pal confirmed that comprehensive preparations and security measures have been coordinated with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful festival, which will be followed by a cultural ceremony on Saturday.

A standout attraction at the university is the gigantic Saraswati idol crafted from cork-sheet and bamboo by the Faculty of Fine Arts, traditionally placed at the center of the hall's pond.

Beyond the university campus, major celebrations are being held at the Dhakeshwari National Temple, Ram Krishna Mission, and various educational institutions including BUET, Dhaka College and Eden Girls' College.

All female dormitories at Dhaka University, such as Rokeya Hall and Shamsun Nahar Hall, have also organized their own dedicated rituals.

While the festivities are being observed nationwide, the cities of Chattogram and Madaripur are witnessing some of the largest regional celebrations. The atmosphere remains one of joy and devotion as students and artists alike pray for the guidance of the goddess in their academic and cultural endeavors.