Gujarati New Year, also known as Bestu Varas, is a time of joy, renewal, and cultural celebration that falls on the day after Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. In Gujarat, this special day marks the beginning of the Hindu Vikram Samvat New Year, a new financial year for businesses, and a time for families and communities to come together in prayer, festivity, and traditional customs.
When is the Gujarati New Year?
The Gujarati New Year arrives on Kartak Sud Ekam (the first day of Kartak month in the Hindu calendar), usually in October or November. It falls one day after Diwali, making the holiday a seamless continuation of Diwali celebrations. While other regions in India celebrate their new year during different times of the year (for example, Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka or Baisakhi in Punjab), Gujaratis observe it right after Diwali.
Historical Significance of Bestu Varas
The origins of the Gujarati New Year lie in the ancient Hindu calendar, known as Vikram Samvat, established by the Indian King Vikramaditya. This calendar is still observed by the Gujarati community and many others in India. On this day, it is believed that Vikramaditya defeated the Saka kings, symbolizing the victory of good over evil—a theme commonly celebrated in Hindu culture.
For centuries, Bestu Varas has also symbolized the onset of new beginnings, not only in a spiritual and cultural sense but also economically. In traditional Gujarat, merchants and traders would often open new account books, known as Chopda, to signify a prosperous start to the business year.
Traditions and Celebrations
- Rangoli Designs: To welcome the new year, Gujaratis decorate their homes with rangoli (colourful patterns made with powdered colours), which are drawn near the entrance. This is believed to invite positive energy and prosperity into the home.
- Chopda Pujan: On this day, business owners perform Chopda Pujan, a ritual that includes worshipping ledgers and account books, and praying for financial success and prosperity. Nowadays, many businesses even use digital devices for this ceremony as a modern twist to this ancient tradition.
- Govardhan Puja: Some families also perform Govardhan Puja on the Gujarati New Year, honouring the story of Lord Krishna lifting Mount Govardhan to protect villagers from torrential rain, symbolizing a commitment to compassion and protection.
- Family Gatherings and Feasts: Families gather to exchange gifts, sweets, and blessings, with feasts including traditional dishes such as Ghughra (sweet dumplings), Fafda, Jalebi, and other Gujarati delicacies.
- Bhai Bij: Gujarati New Year often coincides with Bhai Bij, the fifth and final day of Diwali, where siblings honour and celebrate their bond. Brothers visit their sisters’ homes, sharing food and gifts in a gesture of love and protection.
Prayers and Resolutions
On Bestu Varas, Gujaratis typically visit temples to seek blessings from deities like Lord Ganesha, Lakshmi Mata, and Lord Krishna. Alongside spiritual prayers, families often set personal resolutions, envisioning the year ahead filled with success, happiness, and peace.
The Spirit of Renewal and Positivity
The Gujarati New Year is not just a date on the calendar but a chance to start fresh, renew bonds, and embrace positivity. It’s a festival that blends faith, culture, and gratitude, reminding everyone that, like Diwali, light can always overcome darkness, and new beginnings are a gift.
In Summary
Bestu Varas, or Gujarati New Year, is an essential cultural event that weaves together spiritual practices, business traditions, and family gatherings. It’s a day that reaffirms Gujarat’s vibrant culture and resilient spirit, bringing hope, prosperity, and joy as Gujaratis step into the New Year.
Nutan Varsh Abhinandan—Happy Gujarati New Year! May this New Year bring health, wealth, and happiness to you and your loved ones.
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