Beautiful brass sculpture of Sarasvatī, goddess of knowledge and art

Sarasvatī is one of the most revered deities in Hindu tradition, known as the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, art, music, and speech. Her name is derived from the Sanskrit words "saras" and "vati", which together mean "she who possesses the flow".

**Iconography**

- Sarasvatī is often depicted as a beautiful and serene woman, dressed in white, a symbol of purity and wisdom.

- **A holy book**, a symbol of knowledge.
- **A mālā **, a symbol of spirituality.
- **A water pot**, a symbol of purity and creative flow.

**Symbolic meaning**

- Sarasvatī is associated with the power of speech, which includes language, communication, and artistic expression.
- She is considered the patroness of students, scholars, artists, and musicians.

**Myth and Legend**

- Sarasvatī is often considered the consort or shakti of Brahmā, the creator of the universe. However, in some traditions she is worshipped as an independent deity.

**Festivals dedicated to her**

- **Vasant Panchami **: An annual celebration in her honor, which falls during the spring. On this day, people, especially students and artists, pray to Sarasvatī for wisdom and inspiration.

**Spiritual Importance**

- Sarasvatī represents not only intellectual knowledge, but also spiritual knowledge and enlightenment.
- In many traditions, she is invoked before starting new intellectual, artistic, or spiritual endeavors.