KATHMANDU: Shree Panchami also known as Basanta Panchami  is being celebrated today across the country by worshipping Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, learning, art, music and culture.

The festival is celebrated every year on the fifth day of the bright half of the Nepali month of Magh.

People from Hindu and Sikh communities, mainly in Nepal and eastern India, observe this festival. It is believed that the festival marks the beginning of the spring season.

The day is very special for students and new learners. Students take early bath, observe the mass Saraswati Puja in schools, visit temples and listen to Basanta Shrawan.

Many families mark this day by sitting with young children, encouraging them to write their first words with their fingers, while some just study or create music together.

Many educational institutions arrange special prayers or pujas in the morning to seek blessing of the goddess. Poetic and musical gatherings are held in some communities in reverence of Saraswati.

The festival is considered the best day for starting a new venture and making commitment to good causes.

Goddess Saraswati is worshiped with various names such as Bharati, Sharada, Jagatmata, Bageshwari, Kaumari, Baradayani and Kamdhenu.