Ground Report

Baishakh is the first month in the Bengali Calendar used in Bangladesh and parts of India. The month of Boishakh also marks the official start of summer. The month is notorious for storms called Kalboishakhis. These storms usually start with strong gusts from the northwestern direction at the end of a hot day, and cause widespread destruction. Baishakh is the month when many of the seasonal fruits, especially mango and jackfruit, become available. The first day of Baishakh is celebrated as Pohela Baishakh or Bengali New Year’s day. Pohela Baishakh is also known as Noboborsho. This is a very festive time for Bengalis. Pohela Baishakh is a festival that roots deep into our identity as Bangalis. The musical soiree at dawn, the traditional festive rally of the fine arts institute, the countless melas all bring out the Bangali within us. It is no wonder that the grandeur of these public events obscures subtle traditions like a family get-together. But who can deny the sense of joy that can only be felt by seeing a face that has long been out of touch. Words can barely do justice. The rigors of daily life mean a lot as the close ones hardly ever get to meet. Such an occasion is the prefect time for rekindling old acquaintances. Ramna Batamul is one place that should definitely be visited. Women attired in ‘shada saree with lal-par’ and men in panjabis, the true Bangali spirit of the occasion may be experienced here. However, we do say that the panta-ilish at Batamul is something that can be enjoyed by all members of the family, mainly because of the atmosphere and the festivities accompanying the food on Pohela Boishakh. This is a spirit of every Bengali to achieve their absolute goal. People are getting inspiration from Pohela Baishakh through their life.