THE EVER-FLOWING RIVER OF KNOWLEDGE

Every year, the large field at Dhaka University's Jagannath Hall sees mandap (temporary venues for worship); men, women and children in bright attire; and daylong celebration on the day of Saraswati Puja. Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music and art in Hindu religion, is worshipped every year in the Bangla month of Magh (early February) with much enthusiasm. For obvious reasons, the goddess and this particular puja hold special significance to students; and Jagannath Hall ground hosts the biggest celebration in the country, featuring over 50 mandap housing idols of the deity. Thousands of devotees and visitors, belonging to other faiths, throng the venue to share the joys of the festival.

PHOTOS AND TEXT BY DARSHAN CHAKMA