Nepali Vice President Extends Greetings on Basanta Panchami, Emphasizing Unity and Knowledge

Kathmandu. Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has wished for joy, peace, and prosperity in the life of every Nepali. On the auspicious occasion of Basanta Panchami and Saraswati Puja, celebrated with enthusiasm every year on Magh Shukla Panchami, he extended best wishes for happiness, peace, prosperity, good health, and continued progress to the Nepali people.

He stated, "Nepal's republican constitution protects multiple ethnicities, languages, cultures, and diverse attire while strengthening national unity. Basanta Panchami dispels mutual enmity and inspires everyone to move forward on the path of cooperation, harmony, and knowledge. May Basanta Panchami promote the spirit of love, reconciliation, and unity, inspiring everyone to move towards positive thinking, an energetic lifestyle, and new discoveries. I extend my heartfelt best wishes again."

Vice President Yadav mentioned that another characteristic of Basanta Panchami is its acceptance across all religions, noting that Hindus worship Goddess Saraswati, Buddhists venerate Manjushree, and the Muslim community celebrates it as Sufi Basant, establishing this festival as a multi-religious celebration.

Stating that the core essence of this festival is the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, art, and music, he said, "Musical programs and worship conducted in educational institutions honor knowledge and culture. The tradition of worshipping books, pens, and musical instruments on this day sends the message that tools used in study and practice must be respected. The tradition of parents initiating their children's education (Akshararambha) is also a feature of this festival."

He expressed belief that fairs at Saraswati temples across the country, collective worship in public pandals, singing of hymns, and listening to Basanta music contribute to the preservation of our indigenous traditions and cultural heritage, adding that the religious processions accompanying the immersion of Goddess Saraswati's idols inspire the nurturing of indigenous culture.

The congratulatory message stated, "This festival is also celebrated as Shreepanchami, which is connected to agriculture. The tradition of worshipping the plough (Halo Puja) and honoring agricultural laborers in the Madhesh region is a living example of indigenous culture. Although modernization has weakened some traditions, their revival is necessary because agriculture is the backbone of our economy."