Guardian of intelligence: Goddess Saraswati in Bengal pattachitra Plate art by Hasir Chitrakar

A Captivating portrayal of Goddess Saraswati riding a swan by the prominent bengal pattachitra Plate artist Hasir Chitrakar, carries unique interpretations and information. The swan, in Hindu symbolism, is linked with purity, grace, and discernment, believed to possess the ability to separate milk from water which signify its capacity to distinguish between the valuable and the trivial. This connects with Saraswati’s role as a patron of knowledge and wisdom, guiding the human to perceive truth from falsehood. Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, arts, wisdom and laerning, her representation on a swan adds layers of symbolism to her attributes.