Hindu people to celebrate Saraswati Holiday

DENPASAR (indo.com): The very last day of the Balinese Pawukon, known as Watugunung, is a day for the celebration of the Saraswati Holiday, devoted to Sang Hyang Aji Saraswati, goddess of all knowledge and arts. It occurs on April 5, 2003.

This day is a time for making offerings for books, especially the sacred lontar palm leaf books. Celebrations are mostly conducted at every family compound, temple, and academic institutions throughout Bali.

All books are the subjects of devotion on this day. One is not supposed to read while the celebrations are still going on, and schools have special ceremonies. Students squash to the big temple of Jagatnatha in downtown of Denpasar for a special early morning ceremony in which they pray for success in their studies.

Saraswati Day eve usually sees "Mekekawin" (the reading of ancient Balinese letters, written on lontar leaves) carried out by the students.

The Saraswati always comes twice a year, always on Saturday.