Bangla Noboborsho / Bengali NewYear

Bangla Noboborsho (বাংলা নববর্ষ), or Pohela Boishakh, is the Bengali New Year, celebrated with joy, color, and cultural pride by Bengalis across the world. "Pohela" means "first" and "Boishakh" is the first month of the Bengali calendar—so it marks the first day of the new Bengali year.

When is it Celebrated?

Bangla Noboborsho** is observed on April 14th or 15th every year (depending on the solar calendar), and marks the start of the traditional Bengali calendar year, which is used for cultural, agricultural, and religious purposes in West Bengal (India), Bangladesh, and Bengali communities worldwide.

Significance

Bangla Noboborsho is a time of renewal, reflection, and celebration. It symbolizes:

• A fresh start - cleaning homes, settling debts, and wearing new clothes

• Cultural pride - showcasing Bengali language, music, dance, and cuisine

• Social harmony - uniting communities across regions, classes, and religions

Celebrating Noboborsho with Dorset Indian Association

At Dorset Indian Association (DIA), Bangla Noboborsho is celebrated as a joyful community event open to all. Our festivities include:

• Cultural performances by children and adults

• Bengali music, dance, and poetry

• Traditional food stalls and shared meals

• Art, crafts, and community activities

• A chance to experience the essence of Bengali identity in a warm and inclusive environment