VIDHYARAMBHAM

Today Vidhyarambham – devotees are all set to contemplate on Saraswathi, the Goddess of knowledge. Keralites begin their Vidyarambam celebrations with Mahanavami. On the eve of Mahanavami books and other equipment associated with one’s vocation are offered before the goddess to invoke her help to surmount obstacles in the path of learning or profession. The ritual of Vidhyarambham are performed on the next day- Vijayadashami, when people are initiated to the world of learning. The day is not just associated with initiating tiny tots into the world of letters but concerns all those who take their first lessons in any steam of learning. With reverence, students as well as adults jot down Malayalam alphabets before pursuing their studies. The rituals of the festival includes worshipping Lakshmi and Durga who symbolise wealth, dynamism and will power. Since Vijayadashami is considered the most auspicious occasion to begin a new venture, temples and other religious organisations in Kerala have made elaborate arrangements for Vidhyarambham. Eminent personalities from the fields of education, culture and social activities will lead the rituals, which will continue till the evening.