Saraswati , the consort of Brahma, is the Goddess of Knowledge, music and the creative arts. She is dressed in white and holds a mala and a palm-leaf scroll (symbol of knowledge). She rides a swan or peacock, while playing the veena . It is believed worshipping them during Diwali ushers in happiness, wealth, wisdom and prosperity in the family. She is shown as having four arms, and the most common items held by her in her hands are a book, a vina (lute), a mala, and a water pot. The book signified art, science and learning; the vina associates her with music and performing arts; and the prayer beads and water pot signify her association with religious rites.

Wood carving in India is a traditional art which is passed on by master craftsmen through the generations. Wood craft is the artistic practice of shaping and decorating wooden objects. India has had an ancient tradition of wood carving and wood decorative. There has been a complete revival of the traditional and antique wood craft, owning to its uniqueness and demand in India and abroad. Indian artisans are experimenting with designs to create a blend of traditional and modern woodcraft. The whole of North India has a tradition of carved wooden doors with intricate designs, brass inlay and trellis work for the windows. Assam, which has extensive forests, has a rich tradition of wood works. Their places of worship included large carvings of mythical figures. In Bengal, the clay houses have large wooden pillars and beams with intricate carvings. Creating elaborate designs in wood by hand, with the help of carving tools is called wood carving. Number of folk forms has been developed in woodwork all over India.