Vidhya Aramba Sanskar (Saraswati Pooja)

Vidya Arambha Sanskar (Saraswati Pooja) is performed to mark the beginning of a child’s formal education. This pooja seeks blessings from Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and learning. Here is a list of the samagri (materials) and steps involved for conducting this auspicious pooja:

Vidya Arambha Sanskar (Saraswati Pooja) Samagri:

1. Picture or Idol of Goddess Saraswati – To be worshiped.
2. Kalash (Water-filled pot) – For invoking blessings.
3. Mango Leaves – To be placed around the Kalash.
4. Chalk or Pen – To symbolize learning and knowledge.
5. Slate or Notebook – For the child to write their first letters.
6. Turmeric and Rice Paste – For writing the first letters.
7. White Clothes – For the child to wear (symbolizing purity and knowledge).
8. Books and Study Material – To place in front of the deity for blessings.
9. Fresh Flowers – White flowers are preferred for offering to the goddess.
10. Garland (Mala) – To be placed on the idol or picture of Goddess Saraswati.
11. Dhoop (Incense Sticks) – For fragrance and spiritual atmosphere.
12. Diya (Oil Lamp) – To light during the pooja.
13. Ghee (Clarified Butter) – For the diya.
14. Sweets (Prasad) – To be offered and distributed later.
15. Panchamrit – A mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee for offering.
16. Akshat (Unbroken Rice Grains) – For offering.
17. Chandan (Sandalwood Paste) – For tilak and offering to the goddess.
18. Betel Leaves and Betel Nuts – For the pooja.
19. Fruits – To be offered to Goddess Saraswati.
20. Camphor (Kapoor) – For aarti.
21. Naivedya (Food Offering) – Any food that is offered to the goddess.
22. Pooja Thali – For performing the aarti and offering.
23. Coins – Symbol of prosperity and blessings.
24. Yellow or White Cloth – For covering the books and study materials (Goddess Saraswati is often associated with white).