EMBRACING KNOWLEDGE AND HARMONY: THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SARASWATI PUJA ACROSS CULTURES
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Abastract: The research article delves into the significance of Saraswati Puja, a revered tradition celebrated in honor of Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of knowledge, wisdom, and culture. The article highlights the diverse religious and cultural interpretations of Saraswati across various traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Greek mythology. It emphasises the role of Saraswati Puja in fostering inter-religious harmony, particularly in educational institutions where students of different faiths come together to celebrate the goddess of learning. Despite challenges such as commercialization and extortion, the article emphasizes the importance of upholding the sanctity of Saraswati Puja's sanctity and promoting communal harmony. It calls for renewed efforts to preserve the cultural and social significance of Saraswati Puja as a symbol of enlightenment, unity, and compassion across religious boundaries. Keywords : Goddess Saraswati, Bengali psyche, Knowledge symbolism, Cultural significance, Educational institutions, Inter-religious harmony, Saraswati Puja etc. Introduction : Today marks the auspicious occasion of Saraswati Puja, a celebration deeply rooted in the reverence for knowledge, wisdom, and culture. Devotees fervently worship Saraswati, the embodiment of purity and enlightenment, on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan. In the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, Saraswati emerges as the goddess who illuminates the path of learning and enlightenment. For Bengalis, Saraswati transcends mere religious symbolism; she epitomises the essence of 'Vidya'—an undefined yet revered concept of knowledge and education. In the vibrant imagery of Saraswati, there is no darkness, no shadow of ignorance. She stands as a beacon of light, guiding humanity towards intellectual enlightenment and cultural richness. Saraswati's origin, deeply rooted in ancient scriptures and legends, portrays her as the divine essence of Brahma's power, bestowing upon humanity the gift of knowledge. Described with attributes such as Shubhravarna, Svet Padmasana, Sri Handwriting, Pustaka, and Veena, Saraswati embodies the essence of scholarly pursuit and artistic expression. Beyond the confines of Hinduism, Saraswati's worship extends to diverse religious and cultural realms. Her presence resonates as the divine source of wisdom and enlightenment in everything from Buddhism to Jainism. In the intricate tapestry of belief systems, Saraswati's worship bridges the gap between different faiths, fostering unity and harmony. However, amidst the solemnity of Saraswati Puja, societal challenges loom large. Instances of extortion and commercialization mar the sanctity of this revered tradition. Yet, amidst these challenges, there shines a beacon of hop .......
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Conclusion: In conclusion, the worship of Goddess Saraswati transcends religious boundaries, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and cultural enrichment. Saraswati Puja serves as a unifying force, fostering inter-religious harmony and promoting the values of education and enlightenment. However, challenges such as extortion in the name of religious practices threaten the sanctity of such traditions. It is imperative to uphold the spirit of simplicity and genuine devotion in Saraswati Puja, ensuring that it remains a beacon of unity and enlightenment for all, regardless of creed or background. Ultimately, Saraswati Maa inspires us to embrace humanity's diversity and strive for collective well-being, guided by knowledge, intellect, and consciousness.