Basant Panchami 2026: Is Saraswati Puja on January 23 or 24? Date Confusion Explained

Basant Panchami 2026: Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, is an important Hindu festival that marks the arrival of spring and is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom, learning, music, and art. Every year, devotees worship Maa Saraswati on this day and seek blessings for knowledge and success.

However, Basant Panchami 2026 has created confusion, as many people are unsure whether it should be celebrated on January 23 or January 24. Let us understand the correct date, the reason behind the confusion, and the auspicious muhurat for Saraswati Puja.

Why Is There Confusion About Basant Panchami 2026 Date?

The confusion arises due to the Panchami Tithi (fifth lunar day) starting and ending at different times according to the Hindu Panchang.

In 2026:

• Panchami Tithi begins on January 23

• Panchami Tithi ends on January 24

According to Hindu tradition, most festivals are observed based on the Udaya Tithi—the lunar date that prevails at sunrise.

Basant Panchami 2026: What Is the Correct Date?

As per religious scholars and Panchang calculations:

• Basant Panchami 2026 will be celebrated on January 23

This is because Panchami Tithi is present at sunrise on January 23, making it the most suitable day for Saraswati Puja and Basant Panchami rituals.

Although Panchami Tithi continues on January 24 for some time, it does not prevail at sunrise on that day, which is why January 23 is considered the correct date.

Auspicious Muhurat for Saraswati Puja

Basant Panchami is considered highly auspicious, and unlike many other festivals, there is no strict restriction on puja timing. However, the most preferred time is:

• Morning to early afternoon

• Especially during Abhijit Muhurat (midday period)

Devotees believe that worship performed during this time brings enhanced blessings of wisdom and creativity.

Significance of Basant Panchami

Basant Panchami holds both spiritual and seasonal importance:

• Marks the beginning of spring (Basant Ritu)

• Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati

• Auspicious day to start education, music, arts, and new learning

• Considered ideal for Akshar Abhyas (introducing children to learning)

• Yellow color symbolizes energy, prosperity, and knowledge

People wear yellow clothes, offer yellow sweets, and decorate homes and temples with yellow flowers.

Rituals Performed on Basant Panchami

On Basant Panchami, devotees generally follow these rituals:

• Wake up early and take a holy bath

• Wear yellow or light-colored clothes

• Install or worship the idol/image of Goddess Saraswati

• Offer books, musical instruments, and study materials at the altar

• Chant Saraswati mantras and perform aarti

• Avoid studying during puja time and resume after seeking blessings

Educational institutions and music schools also celebrate this day with special prayers.

Why Basant Panchami Is Important for Students and Youth

Since Goddess Saraswati represents knowledge and wisdom, Basant Panchami is especially significant for:

• Students

• Teachers

• Artists

• Musicians

• Writers

It is believed that worshipping Maa Saraswati on this day removes ignorance and enhances focus, memory, and creativity.

The confusion surrounding Basant Panchami 2026 being on January 23 or 24 is due to Panchami Tithi spanning two calendar days. However, based on Udaya Tithi rules, January 23, 2026, is the correct date to celebrate Basant Panchami and perform Saraswati Puja.

Devotees are advised to follow local traditions and consult regional Panchangs while remembering that faith and devotion are the true essence of the festival.