15th April: A Day of Regional and Cultural Significance Across India

15th April holds cultural and regional importance in many parts of India, marking the beginning of a new year in several states and celebrating heritage, harvest, and community unity. Though not a pan-Indian national holiday, it is widely observed in various forms, especially in Eastern and Northeastern states.

Pohela Boishakh – Bengali New Year (West Bengal and Tripura)

In West Bengal and Tripura, 15th April is celebrated as Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year. It marks the first day of the Bengali calendar and is a time for new beginnings. People clean their homes, wear traditional clothes, and visit temples to seek blessings for prosperity. Markets and shops open Haal Khata (new account books), and cultural events featuring Rabindra Sangeet and folk dances are common.

Bohag Bihu – Assamese New Year (Assam)

In Assam, 15th April often coincides with Bohag Bihu (or Rongali Bihu), the Assamese New Year and the most important festival in the state. It is a week-long celebration of spring and harvest, filled with dance, music, feasting, and social gatherings. People greet each other with “Bihu Mubarak” and celebrate the joy of nature’s renewal.

Vishuba Sankranti- Odisha

Maha Vishuba Sankranti, also known as Pana Sankranti, is celebrated in Odisha to mark the Odia New Year. It falls in mid-April and honors the Sun God. Devotees offer a special drink called ‘Pana’, visit temples, and perform rituals for well-being, prosperity, and the onset of the harvest season.

Vishu – Kerala

Though Vishu usually falls on 14th or 15th April, it is the Malayali New Year and is celebrated with rituals like Vishukkani (first sight of the day), fireworks, and a grand feast called Sadya. People wear new clothes and elders give money (Vishukkaineetam) to the younger members of the family.

Baishaki -Punjab

Baisakhi, also known as Vaisakhi, is a vibrant festival celebrated in Punjab, marking the Punjabi New Year and the harvest of rabi crops. It holds great significance for Sikhs, commemorating the formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. The festival is filled with joy, music, dance, and community gatherings.

Puthandu- Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu celebrates Puthandu, the Tamil New Year, with joy and tradition. Families decorate homes with kolams, prepare special dishes like mango pachadi, and visit temples for blessings. It marks new beginnings, cultural pride, and harmony. People greet each other with “Puthandu Vazthukal,” meaning Happy New Year.

Himachal Day – Himachal Pradesh

15th April is also observed as Himachal Day, marking the day in 1948 when Himachal Pradesh was established as a province of India. The state government organizes parades and cultural events to celebrate its formation and rich heritage.

Overall, 15th April is a day of joy and fresh beginnings, filled with color, tradition, and celebration. While customs vary from region to region, the spirit of renewal, gratitude, and hope remains universal across India on this vibrant day.