Today marks Chaitra Sankranti, the final day of the Bengali calendar year. Tomorrow, the nation will welcome Pohela Boishakh, ushering in the new Bengali year 1432 with joy and festivity. From the hills to the plains, a celebratory mood sweeps across the country.
On this day, many households undergo a special round of cleaning. People burn waste to cleanse their surroundings with smoke—a symbolic gesture of purification.
In many Hindu homes, colorful mangal alpona (auspicious floor art) decorates courtyards and verandas. The day is also known for its unique culinary traditions, reflecting the timeless cultural heritage of rural Bengal.
Chaitra Sankranti is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a moment of reflection and renewal.
As the old year fades away, it paves the way for a universal celebration of hope, unity, and new beginnings on Pohela Boishakh.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Collected
