The Saraswati Temple in Swayambhu came alive on Friday as devotees gathered to celebrate Shree Panchami, a day dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, wisdom, learning, art, music and culture.

Families brought children of all ages to take part in rituals regarded as auspicious for initiating them into learning. As part of the tradition, children scribbled alphabets on the temple walls, a symbolic act believed to mark their first steps into education.

Similar scenes were seen at other Saraswati temples, including Maitidevi and Gairidhara in Kathmandu and Lele in Lalitpur, as well as in other districts.

Also known as Basanta Panchami or Saraswati Puja, the festival is observed by Hindus and members of the Sikh community in Nepal. The day is believed to enhance knowledge and wisdom and also marks the arrival of basanta ritu, the spring season, according to the Hindu calendar.

Here are some photos of Saraswati Puja celebrations in Kathmandu taken by the Post’s photojournalist Dipen Shrestha.