Shree Panchami, also known as Basanta Panchami Saraswati Puja was observed on Saturday, January 28. On the day, thousands of devotees in the Kathmandu Valley paid homage to Saraswati- the goddess of knowledge.  Worshipers visited numerous Saraswati shrines around the capital,  usually located at Lele, Gairidhara and Swayambhu. Many temples were seen crowded. At the Saraswati shrine of Swayambhu, it is believed that if you write your name on the wall there, you’ll be blessed with more knowledge. Different kinds of programmes were also held at schools and colleges.

In addition, Shree Panchami, also being  one of the most auspicious days of the year for other religious ceremonies, a number of weddings were also witnessed during the day. It is considered to be so auspicious that one can hold such ceremonies without having to consult an astrologer.

The festival is also said to mark the beginning of spring.

Photographs by Nirnit Tandukar