What Vidyarambha means
Vidyarambha (also Akshararambha) opens the door to learning. The child, seated on an elder's lap, writes its first letters — often "Om" or "Om Hari Shri Ganapataye Namah" — with a finger in a plate of rice, and the name of God is traced on its tongue with a gold ring.
It is celebrated grandly in Kerala on Vijayadashami (Vidyarambham) and across North and East India on Vasant Panchami, Saraswati's day.
How it is performed
- Worship. Ganesha and Saraswati are worshipped; books and pens are placed before the goddess.
- First letters. Guided by the teacher, the child writes "Om" or the alphabet in rice or sand.
- Blessing. The teacher blesses the child, who touches the teacher's feet.
Mantras
Saraswati Namastubhyam
सरस्वति नमस्तुभ्यं वरदे कामरूपिणि ।
विद्यारम्भं करिष्यामि सिद्धिर्भवतु मे सदा ॥
sarasvati namastubhyaṃ varade kāmarūpiṇi |
vidyārambhaṃ kariṣyāmi siddhir bhavatu me sadā ||
O Saraswati, giver of boons — salutations to you. I am beginning my studies; may I always succeed.
Vidyarambha today
Vidyarambha is widely celebrated today, especially in Kerala and Karnataka on Vijayadashami, at temples and even in schools.
Rituals differ by Veda, region, community and family. For the ceremony itself, follow your family priest (purohit).
Frequently asked questions
When is Vidyarambha done?
Usually at about five, on Vasant Panchami or Vijayadashami.
What does the child write?
Often "Om" or "Om Hari Shri Ganapataye Namah", and the first letters of the alphabet.