Sarasvatī / Vidyā Homam

For learning and the arts

Purpose: a prayer to Sarasvatī, goddess of knowledge, speech, music and the arts, for children and students — before exams, at the start of school (Vidyārambha) or of music and dance training.

When: Vasant Pañcamī, Sarasvatī Pūjā during Navarātri, or Vijayadaśamī. Main mantra: “oṃ aiṃ sarasvatyai namaḥ” (with svāhā for offerings); the Gāyatrī is also used. Books and instruments are often placed before the deity. Simple versions are easily done at home; temples and schools often hold larger ones.

Vasant Pañcamī · Self or priest

Homam — the sacred fire offering · Ask a Jyotishi your own question