Vasant Panchami also known as Basant Panchami or Shri Panchami marks the beginning of spring season. It is a Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Godess Saraswati in the month of January or February. It is held in West Bengal and few parts of Orissa.

There is a belief that goddess Saraswati was born on this day. White is the favorite color of Saraswati which is given special importance on this day by dressing the statues of the Saraswati in white sari and seating her on a white lotus in Padmasana.

Another vital color is yellow which indicates the onset of spring season. Sweets are offered to the goddess, which are then distributed to the devotees as Prasad.

During this day Brahmins are fed; ancestor worship or Pitr-tarpan is performed; children are taught to write their first words; the most educational institutions organize special prayer for Saraswati and god of love Kamadeva is worshipped. The image of Saraswati symbolizes supreme power of her.