Basant Panchmi is a very famous festival, celebrated
not only in Uttarakhand but in the whole of North India. This festival
marks the onset of spring season. It is celebrated between the months of
January and February. On the occasion of Basant Panchmi, Goddess
Saraswati is worshipped. According to various legends, Goddess Saraswati
is the goddess of learning and music. She is also highly respected and
people seek her blessings by praying and offering to her.
On this day, yellow is considered the auspicious color and one can see
everyone wearing yellow cloth, yellow handkerchiefs, and put yellow
tilak on the foreheads. The environment fills with the sound of drums,
welcoming the spring season. Chounphula and Jhumelia dances are the two
special dances that are performed on this occasion.
At Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, another fair is held within the premises
of the Bharat temple on the occasion of Basant Panchami. In a grand
procession the idol of Lord Bharat is carried through the town. The
festival of Basant Panchami also marks the beginning of holi baithaks.
