SHREE PANCHAMI

 The day of Shree panchami that lies sometime in February indicates the advent of spring season in Nepal. A religious function known as Basanta Sharavan is held that day in the first courtyard of Hanuman Dhoka in the presence of the then King and other dignitaries. This day is, therefore, known as Basanta Panchami also. Religious verses are recited by the royal priests and hymns are sung by a consort of musicians, in tunes most suitable to the spring season. This is also the special day of worshipping Saraswati, the goddess of learning. Temples of Saraswati everywhere get crowded with devotees. Sanctuary of Saraswati in the hillock of Swayambhu is very famous where men in huge crowds join the ceremonial worshipping of the goddess.