The Bengali calendar, a lunisolar calendar used predominantly in the Bengal region of the Indian subcontinent, marks significant cultural and religious events throughout the year. In 2023, the Bengali calendar continues to play a vital role in the lives of Bengalis, guiding their daily activities, rituals, and festivals. This article provides an in-depth look at the Bengali Calendar 2023, highlighting important events and holidays.
Details About Bengali Calendar 2023
The Bengali calendar, also known as the Bangla calendar, is traditionally used in West Bengal, Tripura, Assam, and Bangladesh. It is based on the Surya Siddhanta, an ancient Indian astronomical text. The Bengali year starts with the month of Boishakh, which typically falls in mid-April of the Gregorian calendar. The calendar is divided into 12 months, each named after a star or a combination of stars, aligning with the Hindu calendar system.
Calendar 2023
| Date (Gregorian) | Bengali Month | Event/Holiday |
| April 14 | Boishakh | Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) |
| April 25 | Boishakh | Gajan |
| May 9 | Joishtho | Rabindra Jayanti |
| June 21 | Asharh | Ratha Yatra |
| August 15 | Shrabon | Independence Day |
| October 14 | Ashwin | Mahalaya |
| October 20 | Kartik | Durga Puja (Maha Saptami) |
| October 21 | Kartik | Durga Puja (Maha Ashtami) |
| October 22 | Kartik | Durga Puja (Maha Navami) |
| October 23 | Kartik | Durga Puja (Vijaya Dashami) |
| November 12 | Kartik | Lakshmi Puja |
| November 27 | Agrahayan | Kali Puja |
| January 14, 2024 | Poush | Makar Sankranti |
Specific Details about All Events/Holidays
Pohela Boishakh (April 14):
The Bengali New Year, Pohela Boishakh, is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People wear traditional clothes, participate in processions, and indulge in cultural performances. Special foods like panta bhat (fermented rice) are prepared to mark the day.
Gajan (April 25):
Gajan is a Hindu festival dedicated to deities like Shiva, celebrated primarily in rural Bengal. It involves fasting, singing devotional songs, and performing rituals to seek blessings for a prosperous year.
Rabindra Jayanti (May 9):
This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate poet and philosopher. Cultural programs, including recitations, dance-dramas, and songs, are organized to honor his legacy.
Ratha Yatra (June 21):
Ratha Yatra, or the Chariot Festival, involves pulling the chariots of deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. It is celebrated with much fervor in Bengal, especially in the town of Mahesh.
Independence Day (August 15):
Although a national holiday, Independence Day holds significant importance in Bengal as well. It is marked by flag hoisting, patriotic songs, and cultural events celebrating India’s independence from British rule.
Mahalaya (October 14):
Mahalaya marks the beginning of Devi Paksha and the end of Pitru Paksha. It is observed by performing rituals to honor ancestors and listening to the Mahishasura Mardini broadcast, which narrates the story of Goddess Durga.
Durga Puja (October 20-23):
Durga Puja is the biggest and most grandly celebrated festival in Bengal. The five-day festival includes Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijaya Dashami. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are set up, and the idol of Goddess Durga is worshipped with great devotion.
Lakshmi Puja (November 12):
Lakshmi Puja is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Families clean their homes, light oil lamps, and perform puja to invite the goddess’s blessings.
Kali Puja (November 27):
Kali Puja, celebrated on the new moon day of Kartik month, involves worshipping Goddess Kali. It is marked by elaborate rituals, lighting candles, and bursting firecrackers.
Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2024):
Makar Sankranti signifies the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. It is celebrated with kite flying, preparing sweets made of sesame and jaggery, and taking holy dips in rivers.
The Bengali Calendar 2023 is filled with numerous festivals and holidays, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Bengal. These events not only bring communities together but also preserve and promote the age-old customs and rituals. Understanding and celebrating these festivals provide a deeper insight into Bengali culture and its vibrant history.
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FAQ
What is the Bengali New Year called?
The Bengali New Year is called Pohela Boishakh.
When is Durga Puja celebrated in 2023?
Durga Puja in 2023 is celebrated from October 20 to October 23.
What is the significance of Rabindra Jayanti?
Rabindra Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, celebrating his contributions to literature and culture.
How is Makar Sankranti celebrated in Bengal?
Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying, preparing sesame and jaggery sweets, and taking holy dips in rivers.
What rituals are associated with Kali Puja?
Kali Puja involves worshipping Goddess Kali with elaborate rituals, lighting candles, and bursting firecrackers.