Saraswati Day

DENPASAR (indo.com): The final day of the Balinese Pawukon, known as Watugunung, is a day for the celebration of the Saraswati Day, devoted to Sang Hyang Aji Saraswati, goddess of all knowledge and arts. This years' Saraswati Day falls on December 25 when Christians celebrate Christmas Day.

For the Balinese Hindus, this special 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.

On this day, all books are the subjects of devotion. While the celebration is going on, one is not supposed to read and special ceremonies are also held at schools. 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.

On Saraswati Day eve, some Hindu followers hold "Mekekawin" (the reading of ancient Balinese letters, written on lontar leaves carried out by the students.

The Saraswati Day is celebrated twice a year, on Saturday.