Pohela Boishakh 2024: Understand story, significance and traditions of this Bengali New Year

Ready to ditch the old, embrace the new, and hear the joyous chants of "Shubho Noboborsho" (Happy Bengali New Year)? Pohela Boishakh 2024, a joyous festival that falls on April 14th, is here. It's a time for Bengali communities worldwide to come together, celebrate their heritage, and set intentions for a prosperous year ahead.

Happy Bengali New Year to all who celebrate!  But for those new to the festivities, you might be wondering: what exactly is Pohela Boishakh, and how is it celebrated? Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into this colorful festival's rich traditions and significance of this colorful festival.

Pohela boishakh history

Pohela Boishakh (or Bengali poila baisakh) translates to "First Baisakh," signifying the beginning of the new year according to the Bengali calendar. Its roots trace back centuries, with some attributing its origin to King Shoshanko of ancient Bengal, who established the Bengali era around 594 AD.  There's also a fascinating link to Mughal Emperor Akbar's reign in the 16th century.  His introduction of a new tax system based on the solar calendar, called Bangabda, is believed to have solidified Pohela Boishakh as the official Bengali New Year 2024.

Whichever origin story resonates with you, ‘when is bengali new year’ is certain: Pohela Boishakh has always been a time for fresh starts.  It coincided with the harvest season, a time for farmers to settle accounts and sow seeds for a bountiful future.  Today, the essence remains the same – a chance to leave behind the past year's troubles and welcome prosperity with open arms.

While Pohela Boishakh is the heartthrob of West Bengal, Tripura, and Bangladesh, it shares a special connection with other spring festivals across India.  It coincides with Baisakhi, a harvest festival exuberantly celebrated in Punjab, and Puthandu, the Tamil New Year.  In Assam, you'll find the joyous Bihu festival, where people dress up in vibrant "bihu dress" and perform the captivating dance wearing bihu dance costume (interestingly, "bihu" is a different festival altogether, though celebrated around the same time).

Celebrating New Beginnings

Pohela Boishakh is more than just marking the turn of the calendar. It's a time for renewal, optimism, and seeking blessings for prosperity. Here are some captivating traditions that come alive during this festival:

• Panjika: The day begins with the sighting of the new moon, followed by the reading of the "Panjika," an astrological almanac predicting the year ahead.
• Shoubho Aagomon: Witness the stunning "Shoubho Aagomon" (Welcoming of the Auspicious) processions, where people in traditional attire and artists come together in a vibrant display of Bengali culture. 
• Mangal Shobhajatra (Processions): In Bangladesh, the "Mangal Shobhajatra" is a UNESCO-recognized heritage procession featuring dazzling floats depicting mythology and folklore. West Bengal has its own version of early morning processions called "Prabhat Pheri," filled with music, dance, and joyous energy.
• Haal Khata: Businesses traditionally close their old account books (Haal Khata) and open new ones, symbolizing fresh beginnings.
• Panta Bhat and Hilsa: The festive table groans with delicious Bengali delicacies. Enjoy the tangy "Panta Bhat" (fermented rice) and the iconic Bengali Hilsa fish curry.

New clothes are a must! People adorn themselves in beautiful traditional wear, symbolizing new beginnings. Bring Poila baisakh decoration to life with their creative ideas

Also, a visit to the temple is a common practice. Offerings are made to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and Goddess Lakshmi, the bestower of wealth and fortune. Some also worship Lord Krishna and Radha.

Gifting for Pohela Boishakh

Wondering what to gift your loved ones for Pohela Boishakh? Consider these thoughtful options:

• Traditional Bengali Sweets: A box of Sandesh or Mishti Doi (sweet yogurt) will surely be appreciated.
• Panchaangi (Bengali Calendar): A beautiful Panchangi allows the recipient to follow astrological predictions for the year.
• Set of Incense Sticks: Create a calming and auspicious atmosphere with natural incense sticks. (For an eco-friendly touch, look for incense sticks without bamboo or smoke, or agarbatti from flowers)
• Other Home decor: An intricately woven Bengali bedspread or a handcrafted puja thali can add an authentic touch to their home.

On this Bengali New Year 2024 date, celebrate the vibrance, join the festivities, delve into the rich traditions, and usher in the new year with a heart full of hope and prosperity!