World's larget Saraswati Idol created in Bengal | See photos

A 111-foot idol of Goddess Saraswati was unveiled in Maheshtala's Batanagar, South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, on Basant Panchami, creating a world record for the tallest Saraswati statue. The colossal idol, crafted by over 200 artisans over three months, was made from bamboo, jute, thermocol, and paper. Standing almost the height of a ten-story building, the statue has surpassed all other Saraswati idols both in India and worldwide in terms of height.

The grand Saraswati Puja event was organized by Batanagar Creation and Batanagar Squad, with local councillor Gopal Saha, who also serves as the committee's convener, overseeing the project. The creation of the statue posed significant challenges due to its size, weight, and design. Artisans worked continuously under strict timelines to ensure structural stability and safety while maintaining the intricate details of the statue.

On the day of the unveiling, the event attracted nearly 1.5 lakh devotees who gathered at the puja pandal to witness the impressive idol. The puja, which began early in the morning, included traditional rituals such as the chanting of mantras, and the sounds of bells and conch shells resonated across the area. Organizers took extensive measures to manage the large crowd, with heightened security protocols to ensure the safety of visitors.

In addition to the Batanagar pandal, Saraswati Puja was celebrated across schools, colleges, and local clubs throughout West Bengal. The puja is widely observed in the state as part of a celebration of learning, music, and the arts, with students placing their books and musical instruments near the idol to seek blessings. The traditional Banī Vandana ceremony, involving prayers dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, was also held in various locations, drawing participants of all ages, from children to the elderly.

The festival, which marks the arrival of spring, also signifies the onset of Holi preparations, as the festival falls forty days before Holi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu extended their greetings to the people of India on Basant Panchami. Both leaders emphasized the cultural and educational importance of the day, praying for wisdom, prosperity, and the well-being of the nation. The occasion also marked a time of reflection and celebration of India’s deep-rooted traditions and devotion to knowledge.