January 23 or 24? Know date, significance, shubh muhurat, puja vidhi

Basant Panchami is one of the most auspicious festivals in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing the arrival of spring. Celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha, this festival is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, knowledge, music and art.

When is Basant Panchami in 2026?

As per the Hindu calendar, Magha Shukla Panchami tithi will start at 02.28 am on 23 January 2026 and will end at 01.46 am on 24 January 2026. As Hindu festivals are celebrated according to Udaya Tithi, Basant Panchami will be celebrated on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Shubh muhurat for Saraswati Puja

On this day, the shubh muhurat of Saraswati Puja will be from 6:43 am to 12:15 pm, making it the most suitable time for worship and rituals.

Saraswati puja vidhi

On Basant Panchami, devotees should wake up early, take a bath and wear yellow or light-coloured clothes. Place an idol or image of Goddess Saraswati on a clean surface. Offer yellow flowers, fruits, sweets, sandalwood, incense and oil lamps.

Chant the mantra ‘Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah’ with devotion and perform the aarti. Students often place their books and musical instruments near the god to seek blessings for wisdom and success.

Importance of Basant Panchami

Basant Panchami symbolizes the beginning of spring, a season associated with growth, joy and new beginnings. The color yellow, which represents energy, prosperity and knowledge, has special importance on this day. The festival is also celebrated as Saraswati Puja in many regions, especially by students, teachers, artists and academics.