Sharda Mata, also known as Goddess Saraswati, is the Hindu deity of knowledge, wisdom, learning, music, and arts. She is worshipped for success in studies, improvement in speech, creative talents, and spiritual wisdom. Sharda Puja is especially performed during Basant Panchami, Navratri, and before exams or important learning activities.
Preparation
Take a bath early in the morning
Wear clean white or yellow clothes
Clean the puja place thoroughly
Place the idol or picture of Sharda Mata (Saraswati) on a white or yellow cloth
Keep books, pen, musical instruments or Veena near the altar
Sit facing East or North direction
Required Materials
Idol or picture of Sharda Mata
White or yellow cloth
White flowers (Lotus, Jasmine, Marigold)
Incense sticks (agarbatti)
Ghee lamp (diya)
Sandalwood paste
Kumkum, turmeric, akshat
Fruits and sweets (especially kheer)
Coconut
Betel leaves and nuts
Books or notebooks
Veena or any musical instrument (if available)
Sankalp (Resolution)
Sit peacefully and take a sankalp
Pray for knowledge, wisdom, success in education, and creative talents
Puja Vidhi Steps
Light the lamp and incense sticks
Worship Lord Ganesha first
Offer flowers, sandalwood paste, kumkum and akshat to Sharda Mata
Perform abhishek with water, milk or panchamrit
Offer kheer, fruits and sweets as naivedya
Place books and instruments at her feet for blessings
Chant Sharda Mata mantras with devotion
Main Mantra
Om Shardaayai Namah
Om Saraswatyai Namah
Om Aim Hreem Shreem Saraswatyai Namah
Chant any of the above mantras 108 times
Aarti & Pradakshina
Perform Sharda Mata Aarti with devotion
Circumambulate the altar 3, 7, or 11 times
Pranam & Conclusion
Bow down to Sharda Mata and pray for knowledge and wisdom
Touch books and instruments to her feet for blessings
Distribute prasad among family members
Important Instructions
Sharda Mata Puja is most auspicious on Basant Panchami, Vasant Panchami, and Wednesdays. White and yellow colors are highly preferred. This puja is very beneficial for students, teachers, artists, musicians, and writers. Always maintain purity of mind and body during the puja. Avoid eating non-vegetarian food and perform the puja with full devotion.