KATHMANDU, JANUARY 23 Devotees across the country thronged Saraswati temples on Thursday to mark Shree Panchami, also known as Basanta Panchami, worshipping Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, wisdom and the arts. Crowds were seen from early morning at major temples in the capital, including Nil Saraswati in Lazimpat, Saraswati Temple in Dillibazar, Swoyambhu and Saraswati Kunda in Lele, Lalitpur. Students, teachers, artists and writers offered prayers, worshipping books, pens, musical instruments and other tools associated with learning and creativity. Many parents marked the occasion by initiating their children into formal education. The festival also signifies the onset of spring and is considered auspicious for social and religious rituals. Meanwhile, President Ramchandra Paudel and Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav extended best wishes on the occasion, highlighting the cultural and educational significance of Basanta Panchami.