Nagaland: Basant Panchami, or Spring Festival

Basant Panchami, or Spring Festival, in many parts of the Indian Union, is brought in by venerating Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning and wisdom. People often wear yellow clothes to mark the occasion that ushers in brighter sunshine as winter fades away. Seen here is a Saraswati Puja in Dimapur on Sunday, January 10. In this innovative installation, a student has a WhatsApp chat with the goddess pleading with her to help with better exam grades. With symbols such as the pen, paper, musical instruments and ink attached to her, Saraswati is understood to be the supreme goddess of learning who was never domesticated – with no permanent temple to her name – roaming free with her books, a stringed instrument and spiritual beads. (Photo Courtesy: Social Media)