Patna, Feb. 12: Though Sarswati Puja festival is marked in praise of Goddess of knowledge with deep fervour in many parts of the country, it holds its special significance in Bihar, especially for kids.
Several children are introduced to reading writing and arithemetic skills in a ceremonial function named “Khalli Chuai” on the occasion of Sarswati Puja that is invariably organised on the Basant Panchmi day (arrival of Spring) as per Hindu almanac,
After worshipping Goddess Sarswati, the parents help their children in writing “Om”, the sacred syllable representing Brahman, the impersonal Absolute of Hinduism, on a slate with chalk.
Patna, Feb 8: Former President APJ Abdul Kalam today set in motion the plan of action for setting up of the Nalanda International University, modelled on the lines of the famed ancient seat of Buddhist learning.
Addressing the first meeting of the university's governing body at Rajgir, about 100 km from here, Kalam said: "We will make it a world class university, so that great research will be done here."
He expressed hope that the university would regain its past glory.