Families, students and community members gathered at the Seabrook Community Centre on Saturday, 24 January for Bongosathi’s first Saraswati Puja in Melbourne, a celebration that placed learning, culture and togetherness at its centre.
The day opened with traditional Saraswati Puja rituals, including Pushpanjali, Hatekhori for children beginning their writing journey, Aarti and Bisorjon. Devotees came together to seek the blessings of Maa Saraswati, creating a calm and reflective setting that welcomed people across generations. Prasad was shared, followed by a free vegetarian community lunch served to all those present.
A key feature of the gathering was the inaugural Bongosathi Science Exhibition, held under the guidance of Madhurima Saha. The exhibition echoed the spirit of Saraswati Puja by placing curiosity and learning at the forefront. Eleven student groups took part, ranging from primary school students to participants at PhD level. Rather than focusing on competition, the exhibition encouraged students to explain their ideas with confidence and explore science as a shared journey of discovery.
Each participating student received an appreciation certificate and a gift, recognising effort and enthusiasm while reinforcing the idea that every contribution has value. Parents and community members moved between stalls, engaging directly with the young presenters and their projects.
The event was attended by several Guests of Honour, including Mathew Hilakari MP, Member for Point Cook, Hobsons Bay City Mayor Cr Diana Grima, City of Maribyrnong Councillor Cr Pradeep Tiwari, Dr Narottam Das from CQ University, and actor and filmmaker Mouli Ganguly. The guests spent time with students, visited the exhibition displays and spoke with families, adding to the sense of encouragement that ran through the day.
Dr Rabindranath Shaw, founder of Bongosathi, spoke about the importance of supporting young minds while maintaining cultural traditions and building strong community connections through inclusive initiatives.
The celebration closed with the distribution of certificates, group photographs and a shared feeling of pride among organisers, participants and attendees. For many families, the day offered a chance to reconnect with tradition while giving children space to express curiosity and confidence.
Saraswati Puja 2026 emerged as a community gathering that brought faith and education together in a simple and grounded way, reflecting Bongosathi’s ongoing commitment to cultural and educational activities in Melbourne.
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