Poila Baishakh 2024 Date: Confused Between 14th And 15th? Check Exact Date, History, Significance Of Bengali New Year

The celebration of Poila Baishakh is not only centered around West Bengal, but also extends to the Bengali communities residing in Assam, Tripura, and Bangladesh.

Mesha Sankranti is observed as Naba Barsha, Noboborsho, or Poila Baishakh in West Bengal, marking the commencement of the Bengali Calendar and thus celebrated as Bengali New Year. This celebration is not only centered around West Bengal, but also extends to the Bengali communities residing in Assam, Tripura, and Bangladesh. In Assam, Poila Baishakh is celebrated as Bihu, also known as the Assamese New Year.

Poila Baishakh 2024: Date

Poila Baishakh usually falls on either 14th or 15th of April, hence the confusion lingers. This year, it will be celebrated on 14th April, marking the beginning of the year 1431 as per the Bengali calendar. 

History Of Poila Baishkah:

The tradition of celebrating Poila Baishakh traces back to the Mughal era, primarily as an agricultural festival. During that time, it was celebrated as a harvest festival, marking the first day of the new year by clearing all debts. Landlords used to treat their tenants on this day, trying to sweeten their relationships. The importance of celebrating Pohela Boishakh increased among the common people towards the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century.

Significance Of Poila Baishakh:

On Poila Baishakh, Bengalis seem to connect more deeply with their cultural roots, with programs being held in different soiceties and places in Kolkata. In addition to cultural programs, the city of joy becomes home to a number of small fairs which begin a few days before the main day, continuing even after. Popularly known as 'Haat', or 'mela' a number of objects are sold including clothes, home decors, jewellery, and people flock to these places.

It's a day when the Bengali society comes closer to its core. Women adorn themselves in sarees, while men dress in traditional dhoti-kurta or pajama-panjabi, showcasing the richness of Bengali tradition. Apart from this, Bengalis celebrate this day with a lavish traditional Bengali meal.

Business owners worship deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha, conduct traditional ceremonies, and many engage in singing Bengali songs and reciting poetry.