Basant Panchami and conspicuous absence of Saraswati puja
Preachers say north Indian states gradually forgetting the tradition
Basant Panchami, celebrated on the fifth day (panchami) of the bright fortnight (shukla paksha) of Magha month according to the Hindu Gregorian Calendar, is a festival associated with kite flying and recreation these days.
However, a notable absence from most Punjab households on Basant Panchami is Sarswati puja, which used to be the most sacred part of the festivities.
“It is regrettable that followers of Hinduism in northern states have almost stopped worshipping Saraswati on Basant Panchami. It is traditionally a festival meant to pray for wisdom, knowledge, music, art, science and technology,” said Ambey Datt Tewari, a preacher. He said that local astrologers and preachers, led by Rajesh Tewari, perform Sarswati puja on Panchami regularly. Datt added that the festival is celebrated to worship Goddess Saraswati in UP and Bihar.
Religious leaders have shown concern over what they say is the unconcern of residents of northern states, including Punjab, towards paying respects to deity of wisdom, art and culture. They say this has happened over the past few decades.
Saraswati is worshipped to get enlightenment with knowledge and to get rid of lethargy and ignorance.
Kite flying, traditionally considered a symbol of hope, joy and cultural legacy in many parts of the world, has now become controversial due to issues related to modern lifestyle.
Some of the hazards that come with kite flying are fears of safety on unsafe roofs and streets, and injuries caused by the China-made plastic kite string.
The plastic string causes numerous injuries every year and is also associated with environment pollution as it uses plastics that not biodegradable.
In the old days, enthusiasts used to make kites with using coloured paper and bamboo sticks, toning up natural thread with glue and glass power. However, nowadays, both kites and the string are purchased from markets.
The opposition to the plastic string has grown rapidly. Alongside being a cause of loss of life among humans, the string is deadly for birds and animals as well.
Though a complete ban has been imposed on the use of this string, its use continued undeterred.
The tradition of kite flying is believed to have gained popularity in Punjab in the 19th century. During his regime, Maharaja Ranjit Singh regularly organised Basant fairs that included kite flying.
