Patna transformed into a vibrant sea of yellow on Friday as students residing in various hostels across the city celebrated Saraswati Puja with immense traditional fervor. The atmosphere was charged with devotion as chants of "Saraswati mata, vidya daata" echoed through the air, accompanied by cultural programs, bhajans, and Saraswati vandana organized at multiple locations.
Traditional Rituals and Student Participation
Students, adorned with sandalwood 'tilak' on their foreheads, actively participated in the rituals by chanting mantras, blowing conches, and placing their books before the idols of Goddess Saraswati. In households, women prepared elaborate traditional offerings including kheer, halwa, boondi, khichdi, along with fresh fruits and flowers.
Hostel Arrangements and Budget Challenges
Nikhil Kumar, a hostel caretaker on Boring Road, managed extensive arrangements to create a homely environment for resident students. "We organize the puja with meticulous attention to detail so students don't feel the absence of their families," Kumar explained. "The decorations alone require a week of preparation, and students actively contribute to the entire process."
Sunita Devi, another hostel warden, revealed the financial challenges faced this year. "We've been hosting Saraswati Puja for five consecutive years. Previously, we purchased six-foot idols, but rising costs and budget constraints forced us to opt for a three-foot idol costing Rs 3,500 this year," she said. "Despite these limitations, the celebration remains a top priority for our students."
Student Perspectives and Exam Preparations
Jessica, a student at an SK Puri coaching center, shared her first-time experience. "My friends and I specifically bought yellow sarees and matching bangles to participate fully. We need Maa Saraswati's blessings as we prepare for medical entrance examinations," she expressed enthusiastically.
Khushi Singh, celebrating with her hostel mates at college, described the delicious 'bhog' that included pulao and paneer, served alongside boondi and sev as 'prasad' after the prayers.
Spiritual Significance and Official Participation
Pandit Shiv Shankar, who conducted puja rituals at an Anandpuri hostel, emphasized the festival's importance. "Students and artists worship the goddess as the ultimate source of art and knowledge. We offer marigold flowers and pray for intellectual growth and academic success," he explained.
Chief Minister's Engagements
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended greetings to the people of Bihar and the nation on Saraswati Puja. He participated in celebrations at the IAS Colony residence of former chief information commissioner A K Sinha, followed by another puja function at 10, Strand Road. The CM was accompanied by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, and senior officials. Later, he inaugurated the Panche Kautilya Hotel.
DGP's Campus Visits
Ranbir Nandan, Chairman of the Bihar State Religious Trust Board, visited Patna University hostels along with Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar. At Newton Hostel of Patna Science College, they inspected a science exhibition featuring innovative projects on:
- Smart city development
- Advanced water management systems
- Satellite studies and applications
The DGP distributed certificates to participating students, recognizing their scientific contributions. Nandan's visit extended to B N College, Hathwa, C V Raman, and Patel hostels, accompanied by Aman Raj and Abhishek Sinha during the university campus and academic institution tours.
The celebrations highlighted how educational institutions in Patna successfully maintained cultural traditions while adapting to contemporary challenges, creating meaningful experiences for students far from their families during important academic preparations.
