Saraswati

The Goddess of Knowledge

Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, wisdom, and learning. As the consort of Brahma the creator, she represents the creative power (shakti) that gives form to his thoughts. She is the mother of the Vedas and inventor of the Sanskrit language and Devanagari script.

The Veena and the Swan

Saraswati is depicted in white, symbolizing purity and truth, playing the veena (a stringed instrument representing the harmony of all arts). Her mount is the swan (hamsa), which can separate milk from water—symbolizing the ability to discriminate between truth and illusion.

Patron of Learning

She holds the Vedas (sacred texts), a mala (prayer beads), and a water pot (kamandalu). Students, scholars, artists, and musicians invoke her blessings before study or performance. Books and instruments are placed before her image and not touched with feet.

Vasant Panchami

The festival Vasant Panchami (also called Saraswati Puja) celebrates her. Devotees wear yellow, representing the mustard fields of spring and the pursuit of knowledge. The mantra "Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah" is recited for wisdom.