Basant Panchami: Devotees take holy dip in Ganga River

A large number of devotees took holy dip on the auspicious occasion of 'Basant Panchami'. In UP's Varanasi, people took holy dip in Ganga River on February 16. Basant Panchami, also known as 'Vasant Panchami', marks the arrival of the spring season in India. Devotees also lit 'diyas' on this occasion in the river. Devotees also took holy dip early morning in the pious city Haridwar. Associated with yellow colour, the festival of Basant Panchami also marks the start of preparation for 'Holika' and 'Holi', which occurs nearly 40 days later. Devotees also worship Goddess Saraswati today and serve 'bhog' (food offerings) to Almighty.