Bohag Bihu
April 14, Monday
Regional Solar New Year Festivals
Vishu (Kerala). Celebrated in Kerala and parts of Karnataka. Vishu symbolizes the beginning of a new astronomical year. The main ritual is Vishukkani, which means "first vision". In the early morning, people wake up and see a pre-arranged arrangement of fruits, rice, money and other symbols of prosperity.
Poila Boishakh (West Bengal). New Year according to the Bengali calendar. On this day, people wear new clothes, visit temples and have festive feasts.
Puthandu (Tamil Nadu). Tamil New Year, celebrated on April 14. People decorate their houses with kolam (rice flour paintings), prepare festive dishes and visit temples.
Baisakhi (Punjab) Celebrated as the beginning of a new agricultural year. Significant for Sikhs as it is the day the Khalsa was founded in 1699. Includes fairs, bhangra and gidda dances.
Mahavishuva Sankranti (Odisha) Also known as Pana Sankranti. People prepare the traditional drink pana and engage in charity.
Rongali Bihu (Assam) Celebrates the beginning of the new year and the spring season. Includes dance, song and traditional dishes.
Vishuva Sankranti (Nepal) Also associated with the beginning of the astrological year. Celebrations include temple visits and festivities.
General Traditions
Sun Worship. The festival celebrates the importance of the Sun as the source of life and well-being.
Cleansing rituals: Many people start the day by bathing and visiting temples.
Festive treats: Dishes are prepared that symbolize the balance of different tastes (sweet, sour, bitter and salty), reflecting life changes.