New Delhi is buzzing with preparations for Vasant Panchami on January 23, a day dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, patron of knowledge, arts, and music. Families across India traditionally celebrate with fervor, donning yellow attire, offering yellow sweets like kesari and laddoos, and kicking off spring festivities. However, this year brings a twist: no auspicious muhurat for weddings or griha pravesh on this otherwise lucky day.
Astrologers point to unfavorable planetary positions. Venus and Jupiter, key planets for marital bliss, are in astrological combustion, rendering the day unsuitable for manglik works. The moon resides in Pisces with Purva Bhadrapada nakshatra and Parigh yoga, further complicating matters. ‘While Vasant Panchami is an abujh muhurat—meaning no need for specific timings—in normal years, this year’s alignments demand caution,’ explains a noted pandit.
Hindu scriptures strictly advise against auspicious ceremonies when these planets are combust. Couples planning dream weddings or housewarmings will need to postpone. Instead, the day shines for Saraswati worship, starting new educational ventures, or immersing in creative pursuits.
The festival marks the fifth day of the bright half of Magha month, coinciding with Khatwang Jayanti and Takshak Panchami. Temples echo with falgun songs, and devotees smear gulal on deities. Yellow symbolizes the blooming mustard fields of spring, infusing life into rituals.
Looking ahead, challenges persist. An extra Adhik Maas in Jyeshtha from May 17 to June 15 will also bar weddings. Only after pure Jyeshtha begins will muhurats resume. For now, embrace Vasant Panchami’s spiritual essence minus the marital rush.