In Hindu mythology Basant Panchami is associated with the love story of Kamadeva, the god of love, and his wife, Rati. It is said that in an urge to help Parvati, Kamadev tried to shoot Lord Shiva with his arrow made of flowers and tipped with honey, hoping to ignite the flames of desire in his heart. This made Lord Shiva furious; he opened his third eye and reduced Kamadeva to ashes. Rati pleaded with the gods to bring her husband back to life. Her devotion moved the gods and they granted her wish on Basant Panchami. This story symbolises the power of love and thus Basant Panchmi is celebrated as the festival of love and romance. In another version of the story, it is the same day Lord Brahma created the Goddess Saraswati. Hence, it is celebrated as Saraswati puja; Books, pens, paintbrushes and musical instruments are revered and offered to the deity. Musical functions are held and songs associated with spring are sung.
If you are surprised by this story, don’t be. Hindu thought and belief system is highly evolved and intellectually elegant. In discussions on health and happiness a great deal of importance is given to emotional well being, for which romance is considered essential. It’s therefore no coincidence that Basant Panchmi is celebrated as and marked by the arrival of spring. If winter is for rest, then spring brings vibrancy and vivacity to life. Flowers,sunshine and new leaves inspire renewal, romance and growth. These stories and myths are used to direct our attention to the subtle nuances of creation while the purpose of festivals is to bring renewed spirit and joy in our lives. So now you see, nothing is a coincidence; and everything is connected.
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