Devotion, reverence and youthful enthusiasm filled the premises of Jagannath Hall at the University of Dhaka on Friday as the Hindu community celebrated Saraswati Puja, worshipping the goddess of knowledge.
From early morning, the hall echoed with the sound of conch shells, ululation and floral offerings as devotees gathered to offer Pushpanjali (offering of flowers) to Goddess Saraswati.
According to Sanatan beliefs, the deity symbolises wisdom, learning and creativity. As every year, the puja was organised on the auspicious Shree Panchami of the bright fortnight of Magh, turning the campus into a vibrant centre of celebration and communal harmony.
Students said the festival has long been a unique attraction of the university.
“I have already offered anjali twice. It feels really special to be part of this,” said Sujit Bokshi Sourav, a student of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism.
Jagannath Hall traditionally serves as the focal point of Saraswati Puja at Dhaka University. Continuing that legacy, students of the Faculty of Fine Arts installed an exquisitely crafted idol in the middle of the hall pond this year, drawing large crowds of visitors throughout the day.
The highlight of this year’s celebrations is the 76 pandals set up across the vast playground of the hall. Students from various departments and institutes built the pandals with great care and creativity. Most of them reflect contemporary social and cultural themes.
Creativity stood out across the pandals. The Department of Finance designed its pavilion with lighting and alpana inspired by the universe.
The Department of English drew attention by building its pandal entirely by hand for the first time.
“Earlier we used foam and shola. This year, everything has been hand-painted,” said Lakshmikanta Roy, a student of the department.
A finance student said their pandal would take on a magical look at night with its special illumination.
Authorities placed strong emphasis on security to ensure smooth celebrations. The area remained under constant supervision of the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellors for administration and education, the Treasurer and the Proctor.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police and the Fire Service provided round-the-clock support. CCTV cameras covered the entire hall area, while metal detectors were installed at entry points.
For the convenience of visitors, especially mothers and children, a safe breastfeeding corner was set up.
Authorities banned firecrackers to maintain the sanctity of the festival. Special vehicle sticker systems were introduced, and fire drills were conducted with Fire Service participation.
The two-day festival includes prasad (food that has first been offered to a deity) distribution, cultural programmes and blood donation activities. Children enjoyed various rides, toys and food stalls at the fair, adding to the festive atmosphere at Jagannath Hall.
