On the 14th of April 2017, the Government of Bangladesh officially declared that the Bengali New Year, also known as “Pohela Boishakh,” would be a public holiday starting from the following year. As a result, every year on the 14th of April, Bangladeshi people celebrate Pohela Boishakh with great enthusiasm and traditional festivities. In the Gregorian calendar, this date usually falls on the 14th or 15th of April.

Significance of Pohela Boishakh:

Pohela Boishakh marks the first day of the Bengali calendar and is celebrated not only in Bangladesh but also in the Indian state of West Bengal and among Bengali communities around the world. It signifies the start of the harvest season and is a day of cultural significance, with people wearing traditional attire, participating in colorful processions, and enjoying various cultural events.

Traditional Celebrations:

  1. Festive Attire: On Pohela Boishakh, people wear traditional Bengali attire, with women dressed in white saris adorned with red borders and men wearing panjabis or kurta pajamas.

  2. Mongol Shobhajatra: A colorful procession known as the “Mongol Shobhajatra” is organized in different parts of Bangladesh, featuring large masks, replicas of animals, and traditional elements to signify the spirit of unity and cultural heritage.

  3. Traditional Food: Special traditional foods like panta bhat (soaked rice), hilsha fish, pitha (sweet cakes), and sweets are prepared and enjoyed with family and friends.

Festive Mood and Artistic Performances:

Pohela Boishakh is a day filled with joy and cultural performances. People gather in various cultural events, fairs, and musical programs to celebrate the day. Traditional music, dance performances, drama, and poetry recitations add to the festive atmosphere.

Economic Aspect and Business Traditions:

Businesses, especially in the urban areas of Bangladesh, start the new financial year on this day with a new ledger known as the “Halkhata.” Shopkeepers and traders invite customers to their stores, offering sweets and special discounts to mark the occasion.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

  1. What does “Pohela Boishakh” mean?
  2. “Pohela Boishakh” translates to “First of Boishakh” and signifies the first day of the Bengali New Year.

  3. How do people typically celebrate Pohela Boishakh?

  4. People celebrate Pohela Boishakh by wearing traditional attire, participating in cultural events, enjoying traditional foods, and engaging in various festivities.

  5. Is Pohela Boishakh only celebrated in Bangladesh?

  6. Pohela Boishakh is celebrated not only in Bangladesh but also in the Indian state of West Bengal and among Bengali communities worldwide.

  7. What is the significance of the “Mongol Shobhajatra” procession on Pohela Boishakh?

  8. The “Mongol Shobhajatra” procession signifies the spirit of unity, cultural heritage, and the aspiration for a better future.

  9. Why is Pohela Boishakh important from a business perspective?

  10. Businesses mark the day as the start of the new financial year with the tradition of “Halkhata” and attract customers with special offers and discounts.

In conclusion, Pohela Boishakh is a day of immense cultural significance and festivities for the Bengali community. It represents the rich traditions, unity, and hope for a prosperous new year. This day brings people together to celebrate their heritage, enjoy traditional delicacies, and embrace the spirit of renewal and joy.

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