Bengali New Year 2021: Celebrate the Festivities on April 14th with These Traditions
Bengali New Year, also known as Pohela Boishakh, is an auspicious day for the Bengali community. This festival marks the beginning of the new year according to the Bengali calendar, and it's celebrated on April 14. However, do you know why this day carries so much significance for millions of people around the world?
Well, let's dive into the history and significance of Bengali New Year. In the mid-16th century, the Mughal Emperor Akbar established a new calendar based on the Islamic lunar calendar and the solar-based Hindu calendar. This calendar was known as the Bangla San Calendar and was introduced on March 10, 1584.
As time passed, the Bengali people started celebrating the first day of the Bangla San Calendar as Pohela Boishakh or Bengali New Year. Although it's mainly celebrated in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal, it's also celebrated with great enthusiasm in other parts of India and different countries around the world.
If you are looking for a reason to celebrate this festival, let me tell you that it's not only about welcoming the new year but also about embracing Bengali culture, values, and traditions. Pohela Boishakh brings families, friends, and communities together, and it's a time to forget all the negativity and start fresh in life.
Sounds exciting, right? But wait, there's more! Bengali New Year is full of mouth-watering food, colorful clothes, and joyful music. You can see people of all ages dressed in traditional Bengali attire, dancing to the tunes of dhol and dhak, and indulging in delicious sweets like rasogulla, sandesh, and mishti doi.
Moreover, you can also witness fairs, parades, and processions across the cities during this festival. In Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, people gather in thousands to witness the grand parade that starts from the Kumartuli area and ends at the Red Road.
If you're still wondering whether you should celebrate Bengali New Year or not, let me give you a few more reasons to do so. This festival signifies new beginnings, prosperity, and good luck. It's believed that if you start something new on this day, it will yield positive results throughout the year. Hence, many Bengalis start their new businesses, buy new homes, or launch new projects on Pohela Boishakh.
Moreover, if you are a foodie, you wouldn't want to miss the Bengali New Year feast known as Naboborsho Barsho Boron. You can savor traditional Bengali delicacies like fish curry, chingri malai curry, alur dom, and many more.
So, are you excited to celebrate Bengali New Year this year? If yes, mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Bengal. Let's welcome the new year with open arms, hope, and happiness!
In conclusion, Pohela Boishakh is an important festival for the Bengali community and is celebrated on April 14. It's a time to forget all the negativity and start afresh. This festival signifies new beginnings, prosperity, and good luck. You can witness fairs, parades, and processions across the cities during this festival. Moreover, Bengali New Year is full of mouth-watering food, colorful clothes, and joyful music. Let's celebrate Pohela Boishakh with enthusiasm and joy.
"When Is Bengali New Year" ~ bbaz
Bengali New Year: A Celebration of Hope and Renewal
The Bengali New Year, known as Pohela Boishakh, is one of the most important and eagerly awaited festivals in Bangladesh and West Bengal. This festival marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar and symbolizes hope, renewal, and new beginnings. Pohela Boishakh is celebrated on April 14 every year, but its significance goes way beyond just a mere date. In this article, we will explore the rich history, culture, and traditions associated with Bengali New Year.
History:
The origins of Pohela Boishakh can be traced back to the Mughal Emperor Akbar's reign during the 16th century. The emperor introduced the Mughal calendar, which was a combination of the Islamic lunar calendar and the solar Hindu calendar, to bring unity among different religions and communities in his empire. It was also a way to streamline tax collection. However, it was later modified by the Bengali historian and scholar, Nawab Abdul Latif, who created the Bengali calendar in the 19th Century.
The Bangla New Year has since become a significant cultural event, particularly in the Bengali-speaking regions of India and Bangladesh. It is also celebrated by the Bengali diaspora around the world.
Traditions:
The Bengali New Year is typically celebrated with great fanfare and enthusiasm. People dress up in traditional attire, and streets are adorned with colorful decorations that showcase Bengali art and craft. The day starts with an early morning procession called Mongol Shobhajatra, where people parade with masks, puppets, and other artworks. It is symbolic of driving away evil spirits and ushering in good luck and prosperity.
People visit relatives and friends, exchange sweets and gifts, and feast on traditional Bengali delicacies. Panta Ilish (fermented rice and fish) is a must-have dish during this festival. People also participate in cultural programs that showcase Bengali folk music and dance.
In urban centers, shopping malls and commercial districts put on sales and special discounts to attract customers. In rural areas, fairs and markets are held where farmers and artisans exhibit their products, providing an opportunity to showcase their products and make some income.
The Significance:
Beyond the festivities and elaborate rituals associated with Pohela Boishakh, it holds immense importance for Bengali people, uniting them in a shared sense of identity and culture. It serves as a reminder of their national and cultural heritage, promotes communal harmony, and fosters a sense of unity among different ethnic and religious communities.
Moreover, Pohela Boishakh embodies the spirit of hope and renewal, which is vital, especially in these uncertain times. The festival signifies the beginning of a new year, a fresh start, and an opportunity to embrace new opportunities and developments with optimism. It is a time to reflect on the past, learn from it, and move forward with renewed energy and zeal- an outlook desperately needed in the world today.
In Conclusion
The Bengali New Year, or Pohela Boishakh, represents more than just the start of a new year; it encapsulates the shared history, culture, and traditions of Bengali people worldwide. This vibrant, colorful, and joyous festival has been celebrated for centuries, bringing people closer, fostering cultural bonds, and promoting national unity.
As we celebrate the coming of the new year, let us take inspiration from the spirit of hope that Pohela Boishakh embodies. Let us reflect on our past, learn from it, and move forward with renewed vigor to take on the challenges of the future. Shubho Nabobarsho! (Happy New Year!)
When Is Bengali New Year: A Scorecard Comparison
The Bengali Calendar
The Bengali new year or Pohela Baishakh marks the start of the Bengali calendar. The calendar was promulgated by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1584, with the aim of facilitating revenue collection in Bengal. It marked a departure from the traditional Saka era, which was based on lunar cycles, and introduced a solar calendar. Since then, the Bengali new year has been celebrated on different dates across India, Bangladesh, and around the world. But when exactly is it?
Comparing Dates
Bengalis follow two calendars – the solar Bengali calendar and the lunar Islamic Hijri calendar. The new year according to the solar calendar falls on 14th or 15th April every year. However, the date according to the lunar calendar varies depending on when the new moon appears. This means that the Islamic new year, which is also observed in Bangladesh, often clashes with Pohela Baishakh celebrations.
Festivals of India and Bangladesh
In India, the new year coincides with many other festivities, including Vishu (Kerala), Bihu (Assam), Poila Boishak (West Bengal), and Tamil New Year. In Bangladesh, the celebrations are known as Pohela Baishakh and coincide with the harvest season. It is the biggest secular festival in the country, and people mark it with music, dance, food, and colourful processions.
Traditional Celebrations vs Modern Culture
Pohela Baishakh used to be celebrated as an agrarian festival, with farmers paying homage to the gods for a bountiful harvest. Today, it has a more general appeal and marks the start of a new year for Bengalis worldwide, regardless of religion or occupation. While traditional customs include buying new clothes, visiting relatives, and feasting on panta bhat (rice soaked overnight), modern trends have seen the growth of cultural programs, street fairs, and concerts.
Cross-border Celebrations
In recent years, the festival has become an occasion for cross-border relations between Bangladesh and India. It is also celebrated in other parts of the world, including New York, Sydney, and Tokyo, where Bengali expatriates and cultural enthusiasts gather to share festivities. In some countries, such as Singapore and Malaysia, the Bengali community celebrates the new year in a small way, with prayers and offerings at temples or cultural centers.
Comparing Traditions
| Tradition | Bangladesh | India | Rest of the world |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boishakhi Mela | Grand fair in Dhaka and other cities Featuring music, dance, and food stall kiosks | Colourful processions in Kolkata and Tripura Bihu dance performances in Assam Tamil Puthandu celebrations in Tamil Nadu | Cultural programs and fairs by Bengali communities abroad Typically held on weekends or public holidays |
| Pujas and Prayers | Visits to temples, mosques and churches Offerings of sweets, flowers and fruits | Worship of deities such as Ganesha, Lakshmi, or Saraswati Prayers for prosperity and good fortune | Prayer meetings in Bengali cultural hubs Involving songs, dances and recitations from the region |
| Clothing and accessories | New saris, shalwar-kameez, and panjabis Mehendi or henna tattoos Floral ornaments like Tiaras or Mukuts | New clothes, especially Punjabi suits or Dhotis Matching accessories like bangles and necklaces Brooches or pin-on badges with Pohela Boishakh slogans | Bengali motifs or designs on clothing items Jewelry in traditional styles, such as jhumka or matha patti Colours like white or red, symbolizing purity or courage |
| Cuisine | Panta Bhat, a dish of overnight-soaked rice Home-made pickles and curries Street foods like fuchka or jhal muri | Traditional Bengali meals, including sweets like roshogollah Special delicacies like luchi and alur dom Local variations like Shukhto (Bengali stew) | Bengali-inspired dishes at restaurants, cafes, or food trucks Sweets like Mishti Doi or Sandesh Fusion recipes like 'Bengal-Bombay Bhel' |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Pohela Baishakh is a festival that brings joy and harmony to Bengalis around the world, the dates and traditions vary depending on geographical and cultural factors. Whether you prefer the old customs or new trends, there is something for everyone in Pohela Baishakh – from food to fashion, music to dance, and much more. Let us all embrace the spirit of this festival and welcome the new year with open arms.
When Is Bengali New Year?
Introduction
The Bengali New Year is also known as Pohela Boishakh and is the first day of the Bengali calendar. This day marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with much enthusiasm and fervour in West Bengal, India and Bangladesh.When is Bengali New Year?
Bengali New Year usually falls on the 14th or 15th of April every year, according to the Gregorian calendar. However, in some years, it may fall on the 13th or 14th of April due to the difference between the lunar and solar calendars.The Significance of Bengali New Year
The Bengali New Year has immense significance for the Bengali community as it marks the start of a new year and a new beginning. It’s a time of renewal and rejuvenation, where people forget all the past grudges and move towards a positive future.How is Bengali New year Celebrated?
The day begins with people waking up early in the morning and taking a bath before heading out to visit their local temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. They wear new clothes and exchange sweets with their loved ones, friends, and family.Festive Food
Traditional Bengali food like panta bhaat (fermented rice), ilish mach bhaja (fried Hilsa fish) and chholar dal (chana dal) are eaten along with sweets like rosogolla, sandesh, and mishti doi.Shopping and Fairs
People go shopping and visit fairs to enjoy a variety of foods, entertainment, and cultural programs. Businesses open their new account books, believing that this will bring them good luck and prosperity.Cultural Performances
In different parts of West Bengal and Bangladesh, various cultural programs are organized to mark the occasion. These include street plays, dance programs, and music performances.Conclusion
The Bengali New Year is an auspicious occasion that marks the beginning of a new year, full of hope, prosperity, and positivity. Celebrating this festival brings people closer together and strengthens their bonds of love and friendship. So, mark your calendars for April 14th or 15th, and join in the festivities with your loved ones. Shubho Noboborsho! (Happy New Year!)When Is Bengali New Year?
Bengali New Year, also known as Pohela Boishakh, is the first day of the Bengali calendar. It is celebrated on April 14 every year in Bangladesh and the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam. The celebration takes place in a festive atmosphere, with cultural programs and traditional foods.
The Bengali calendar follows the solar system, but it also incorporates the lunar cycle. It is based on the Surya Siddhanta, an ancient astronomical text that dates back to the 5th century CE. The Bengali calendar has 12 months, each divided into two parts: waxing and waning. The new year, Pohela Boishakh, falls on the first day of the month of Boishakh.
The origins of Pohela Boishakh can be traced back to the Mughal era. It was introduced by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century as a way of collecting taxes from his subjects. The farmers used to pay their taxes on this day, and it became a tradition over time. Later, it evolved into a cultural festival, celebrating the harvest season and the start of a new year.
Pohela Boishakh is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal in Bangladesh and West Bengal. The day starts with the cleaning of houses and shops, followed by traditional breakfast consisting of panta bhat (rice soaked in water), fried hilsa fish, and various types of chutneys. People dress up in traditional attire, mainly in white saris with red borders for women and white pajamas with panjabi (kurta) for men.
The main attraction of Pohela Boishakh is the colorful processions or prabhat pheri, which start from different parts of the city and converge at a central point. The processions consist of musicians, dancers, and other performers, who showcase their talents through various cultural programs. People also carry placards with slogans promoting harmony and unity.
The day concludes with a grand finale, a cultural program that takes place in public places like parks or open grounds, where people gather to watch and participate in various entertainment activities. Traditional foods like pitha (rice cakes), bhapa pitha (steamed rice cakes), and kalojam (a sweet dish) are also served.
In Assam, Pohela Boishakh is known as Bohag Bihu, which falls on the same day as Bengali New Year. It is celebrated for seven days, with each day representing a different aspect of life. Assamese people perform the Bihu dance, a traditional folk dance, and consume a lot of food and drink during the festivities.
In Tripura, Pohela Boishakh is celebrated as well. People visit temples and offer prayers to seek blessings for the coming year. Traditional foods like chak-hao kheer (sweet black rice pudding) and chakwi (a type of bread) are consumed, and cultural programs are organized in local clubs and community centers.
In conclusion, Pohela Boishakh is an important cultural festival in Bangladesh and the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam. It represents the start of a new year and celebrates the harvest season. The festival brings people together and promotes cultural harmony and unity. If you get a chance to experience Pohela Boishakh, don't miss it!
Thank you for reading this article about When Is Bengali New Year. We hope this information helps you understand the significance of this festival and inspires you to learn more about other cultural festivals around the world.
When Is Bengali New Year?
What is Bengali New Year Called?
Bengali New Year is popularly known as Pohela Boishakh which means the first day of the Bengali calendar.
What Date is Pohela Boishakh Celebrated?
Pohela Boishakh is celebrated on the 14th or 15th of April every year. However, in leap years, it may be celebrated on the 13th of April.
How is Pohela Boishakh Celebrated?
On this day, colorful processions called prabhat pheri walks through the streets. People wear new clothes, especially traditional Bengali attire, and participate in cultural performances and feasts. Markets and shops are adorned with festive decorations, and people come together to enjoy traditional foods and sweets.
What is the Significance of Pohela Boishakh?
Bengali New Year is a significant cultural event in Bangladesh and West Bengal (India). It marks the beginning of the agricultural year and is celebrated as a symbol of hope and new beginnings. It is also a day for people to reunite with their loved ones, share good wishes, and be grateful for the blessings of the preceding year.
Why is Pohela Boishakh Important to Bengalis?
Pohela Boishakh is not only an occasion for cultural festivities but also holds a deep emotional connection for Bengalis. It represents a unifying cultural bond among the Bengali-speaking people around the world, upholding their linguistic and cultural heritage.
In Conclusion
Bengali New Year, also known as Pohela Boishakh, is a significant cultural event celebrated in Bangladesh and West Bengal, India, with great joy and enthusiasm every year on the 14th or 15th of April. It signifies new beginnings, hope, gratitude, and the unifying cultural bond of the Bengali people.