Vasant Panchami is celebrated on shukla paksha panchami thithi, the fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar calendar, in the month of Magha, (Jan- Feb). It is observed in some parts of India as a special day for the Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning, wisdom, knowledge, arts and music. Kids who will be starting lessons, in academics or arts, propititate the goddess of learning and get her blessings to be successful in their endeavors.

Saraswati Devi is the hailed as the creative power of Brahma. Legend has it that it was because of Saraswati that Brahma was able to observe the Nadabrahmam, the primordial sound which is revered as the source of all creation.

She is depicted as seated on a swan, with palm leaf scroll and japa mala in hand, and playing the veena. The white saree that she adorns implies purity. Her vahana the Swan, implies that one should be able to use the knowledge acquired to discriminate the good in this world. She is also hailed as Vak Devi, the Goddess of speech. It was with her blessing that the great poet Kalidasa, who was dumb, acquired the ability to speak.

Saraswati Devi is worshipped by all as the Goddess of knowledge, wisdom, arts, studies. Students and artists worship her for furthering their knowledge and career. It is tradition to formally initiate young children to books and learning by performing Aksharaabyasam or Vidyaarambam on this day.

Vasant Panchami marks the advent of spring in Northern parts of India. It is celebrated as the season of growth. Forty days from Vasant Panchami is Holi, the celebration of colors for spring. Yellow is a color generally associated with the festival of Vasant Panchami.  Various festivities like playing with colors and flying kites mark the celebrations.