Poila Boishakh: A day to imbibe culture in next generation

Ahmedabad: Shubho Nabo Barsho' is what a Bengali will say to you on the first day of Boisakh of the Hindu calender, celebrated as Bengali new year, Poila Boishakh. Young or old, you are bound to be greeted with a basketful of sweets, earful of music, countless blessings and a heart full of love.
Celebrated in a simple but succinct blend of fun and tradition, Bengalis welcome their new year Poila Boishakh with a spirit of warmth and togetherness.Prayers are offered and new clothes are worn. Men and women sing and dance, while some delight on sweets. It is considered an auspicious beginning for financial ventures.
"I begin the day by seeking the blessings of elders. I call and meet my extended family of friends in Ahmedabad, which has become my home," says Gopa Banerjee, a teacher living here for over 20 years. "After Durga Puja, this is another occasion to get together," she adds.
For Bengalis in Ahmedabad, this is an important occasion to imbibe culture in the next generation. Most Bengalis here participate in cultural programmes. Says Swapna Dutt, an airline sales executive, "I have never seen celebrations in Kolkata, but don't miss out as I attend functions organised by Bengal Cultural Association." Like Dutt, Alok Nath Biswas, a chief engineer at ONGC too spends the evening at a cultural gathering organised in Chandkheda.
Rubbishing the thought that recession might put a dent on the celebrations, Biswas says, "This is an auspicious day for us. No recession can take away the pleasure of being with close ones." Agrees Banerjee, "Buying new clothes is tradition. Fancy clothes are not important. Even a piece of cloth sewn together by a loved one is welcome."