As dawn broke on Monday, the air across Bangladesh was filled with devotion, festivity, and the vibrant spirit of Saraswati Puja, one of the most cherished religious festivals of the Hindu community.
Celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence, this auspicious occasion marks the fifth day of the bright fortnight in the Bangla month of Magh, known as Vasant Panchami. Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the divine embodiment of wisdom, knowledge, and arts, the festival is a celebration not only of faith but also of learning, culture, and communal harmony.
For students and educational institutions, Saraswati Puja holds special significance. Devotees from all walks of life gathered at temples, homes, and educational establishments to offer prayers and seek blessings for intellectual enlightenment and academic success. Books, musical instruments, and other tools of learning were placed before the deity, symbolising the sanctity of education and creativity. The day resonated with chants of hymns, the aroma of incense, and the vibrant colours of flowers adorning the altars, creating an atmosphere of spiritual fervour.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, in separate messages, extended their heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community on this sacred occasion.
President Shahabuddin emphasised Bangladesh's rich legacy of communal harmony in his message. "Our nation stands as a beacon of mutual coexistence and respect," he said. "From ancient times, the people of this land have practiced their respective religions and traditions in harmony. To preserve this glorious heritage, every citizen must play their part. Let us use the knowledge we gain not just for personal growth but for the betterment and service of humanity."
Prof Muhammad Yunus, reflecting on the historic student-led uprising that ushered in the interim government last year, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and equal rights. "Our interim government is committed to improving the lives of all individuals, irrespective of nationality, religion, caste, or community," he stated. On this holy day dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, he urged members of the Hindu community to dedicate themselves to acquiring knowledge and contributing to the nation's development. "Let us harness the power of education to build a brighter future for everyone," he added.
The capital city of Dhaka came alive with the vibrancy of Saraswati Puja celebrations, showcasing the country's deep-rooted cultural heritage and spirit of unity. Multiple puja ceremonies were organized at various locations, drawing large crowds of devotees and well-wishers. Colourful pandals (temporary structures) adorned with marigolds, mango leaves, and traditional decorations became focal points of worship and festivity.
Educational institutions, too, played a pivotal role in celebrating the day. Many schools, colleges, and universities hosted elaborate pujas, inviting students, faculty, and local communities to participate. Young children dressed in yellow—a colour symbolic of spring and prosperity—carried books and offerings to the goddess, seeking her blessings for academic excellence. Traditional music and dance performances added to the festive ambiance, reminding everyone of the timeless connection between art, culture, and spirituality.
The most spectacular celebration of Saraswati Puja in Dhaka will take place on the premises of Jagannath Hall, one of the largest dormitories at Dhaka University. Thousands of devotees and visitors are expected to gather here to participate in religious rituals and explore the vibrant pandals set up across the university's expansive grounds.
This year, students from 72 departments of Dhaka University have come together to organize an impressive 72 puja pandals, each showcasing creativity and devotion. The highlight of the celebration will be a majestic idol of Goddess Saraswati, crafted by the Fine Arts Faculty using cork-sheet, bamboo, and other materials. As per tradition, the idol will be placed at the center of a pond within the hall premises, drawing large crowds of devotees and admirers alike.
According to hall authorities, this iconic installation has long been a major attraction for both worshippers and tourists, symbolizing the fusion of art, culture, and spirituality.
In addition to Jagannath Hall, Saraswati Puja will also be celebrated at all the women’s dormitories on campus, including Rokeya Hall, Samsun Nahar Hall, Bangladesh Kuwait Moitri Hall, Begum Fazilatunnesa Mujib Hall, and Kabi Sufia Kamal Hall. Each hall will host its own unique puja arrangements, ensuring that the entire university campus resonates with the spirit of devotion and festivity.
The central puja at Jagannath Hall will be conducted at the Upashanalay (prayer hall), while employees of the dormitory have organized several additional pandals to honour Goddess Saraswati. These efforts reflect the deep-rooted cultural significance of the festival among students, faculty, and staff.
Saraswati Puja transcends religious boundaries, serving as a reminder of Bangladesh's commitment to fostering harmony among diverse communities. People from different backgrounds joined hands to celebrate the festival, underscoring the values of tolerance, respect, and shared joy. This year, the celebrations took on added significance as the nation continues its journey toward progress and reconciliation under the leadership of the interim government.