বাংলার উদয় (An ode to Bengal, its heritage and its beauty) — JUNE 2024
Banglar Uday: Celebrating Bengal State Foundation Day
June 20th marks a significant day in the calendar of Bengal — the Bengal State Foundation Day. This day is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and the progressive spirit of the region. From the lush landscapes of the Sundarbans to the bustling streets of Kolkata and the serene hills of Darjeeling, Bengal’s story is one of resilience, diversity, and a continuous pursuit of excellence.
Historical prospect: The declaration of the 20th of June as the West Bengal State Foundation Day is rooted in historical significance. The British East India Company, and later the British Raj, were wary of the strong qualities exhibited by the people of Bengal — such as passion, courage, and self- esteem. These traits were seen as potential threats to British rule.
To manage and mitigate these perceived threats, the British administration frequently considered dividing Bengal into two separate provinces. This strategy, known as “divide and rule,” aimed to weaken potential resistance by creating divisions among the local population, making it easier for the British to maintain control. By splitting the region, the British hoped to dilute the collective strength and unity of the people, thereby reducing the likelihood of organized opposition to their rule. This historical context underscores the significance of the 20th of June, as it marks a day of remembrance and recognition of West Bengal’s identity and resilience against colonial strategies aimed at undermining it.
The partition of Bengal from 1905 which led to so many protests and rebellions that it was later annulled in 1911. However on 20th June 1947, just within the sight of independence, Bengal was divided into West Bengal (Paschimbanga) , which became a part of India, and East Bengal (PurbaBanga) which become a part of East Pakistan and later on Bangladesh.
However, this might have been a historic account of the West Bengal Foundation Day but the day itself is to celebrate the mixture of cultures, traditions, languages and most importantly food of Bengal.
Post independent Bengal: However, challenges remain. West Bengal has experienced notable economic development, especially in key sectors such as information technology, manufacturing, and services.
· Kolkata has transformed into a significant IT hub. The city has attracted considerable investments from both national and international companies, which has spurred job creation and the influx of skilled professionals. The growth of IT parks and technology centers in Kolkata has positioned the city as a prominent player in India’s IT industry.
· West Bengal has a diverse industrial base, with manufacturing being a critical component of its economy. The state has leveraged its rich natural resources and strategic location to develop various manufacturing industries, ranging from textiles and jute to chemicals and engineering goods. The presence of major industrial regions, such as Durgapur and Haldia, has further bolstered the manufacturing sector.
Service sectors including finance, education, healthcare, and tourism, has seen substantial growth. Kolkata, as a major metropolitan area, offers a wide range of services that cater to both local and international needs. The city’s educational institutions and healthcare facilities are among the best in the country, attracting students and patients from various regions.
States geographical position makes it a crucial gateway to the northeastern states of India and neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. It has enhanced the state’s role in trade and commerce, facilitating the movement of goods and services. The state’s ports, particularly the Port of Kolkata and the Port of Haldia, are vital for international trade.
As Bengal celebrates its foundation day, there is a collective aspiration for a future that honors its rich past while embracing modernity.
Sustainable development, technological advancements, and inclusive growth are key focus areas.
The state government, in collaboration with private enterprises and civil society, is working towards creating a more equitable and prosperous Bengal.
Investment in various fields and promotion of tourism are some of the initiatives aimed at achieving this vision.
There is also a renewed emphasis on preserving the state’s ecological treasures, such as the Sundarbans mangrove forest, which is not only a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also a crucial buffer against climate change.
Bengali Cuisine:
Bengali foods are a vibrant tapestry of flavours and emotions that beautifully reflect the region’s rich culture.
Bengali cuisine is famous for its diverse and delicious range of dishes. Sweets like rasgulla and sandesh are renowned for their rich, sugary flavours. Macher jhol (fish curry) and aromatic biryani are popular savory dishes that showcase the region’s culinary prowess.
Sweets hold a special place in Bengali cuisine, reflecting the state’s penchant for desserts. Bengali sweets, or mishti, are renowned across India and beyond. Iconic sweets like rosogolla, sandesh, and mishti doi (sweetened yogurt) are celebrated for their unique taste and texture.
Rosogolla, made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and soaked in sugar syrup, is a beloved delicacy with a spongy, melt-in-the-mouth quality.
Sandesh, another chhena based sweet, comes in various flavors and shapes, often garnished with saffron, pistachios, or rose petals. Mishti doi is a creamy, sweetened yogurt traditionally set in earthen pots, adding a distinct earthy flavor.
The importance of sweets in Bengali culture extends beyond daily indulgence to celebrations and rituals. No festival or auspicious occasion is complete without an assortment of sweets, symbolizing joy and prosperity.
Durga Puja, weddings, and other festivities see an elaborate spread of sweets, underscoring their cultural significance.
Vegetarian delights in Bengali cuisine are equally noteworthy. The Bengali diet includes a plethora of vegetarian dishes, emphasizing seasonal produce and subtle flavors. Shukto, a mixed vegetable curry with a slightly bitter taste, often served as a starter, exemplifies the balance of flavors.
Aloo posto, made with potatoes and poppy seed paste, is another popular dish, cherished for its creamy texture and mild taste.
Leafy greens, lentils, and vegetables are integral to the Bengali diet, often cooked with minimal spices to retain their natural flavors. Chorchori, a mixed vegetable stir-fry, and a banana flower curry, are beloved vegetarian preparations. Dhokar dalna, a lentil cake curry, showcases the ingenuity of Bengali vegetarian cuisine, combining flavors and textures in a harmonious dish.
In essence, Bengali cuisine, with its exquisite sweets and vegetarian delights, reflects the state’s culinary artistry and cultural richness. The importance placed on these dishes highlights the Bengalis’ love for food, celebrating every meal as a feast and every occasion with a touch of sweetness.
Bengali cooking is also known for its subtle and nuanced use of spices, which enhances the natural flavours of the ingredients without overwhelming them. The emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients is a hallmark of Bengali cuisine, ensuring that each dish is flavourful and nutritious.
FESTIVITIES AND CULTURAL EVENTS :
West Bengal, is renowned for its rich tapestry of festivals, each reflecting the cultural, religious, and social diversity of the region. Beyond the grand celebrations of Durga Puja and Poila Boishakh, numerous other festivals play a significant role in the lives of Bengalis, each adding its unique flavor to the state’s cultural mosaic.
Durga Puja:
Durga Puja is one of the most significant and grand festivals celebrated in with immense grandeur in the Bengali month of Ashwin (September- October). The festivities begin from Mahalaya (the day marking the end of pitripokkho and the beginning of debipokkho). It’s believed that during these 10days Goddess Durga visits her fathers abode . Also a mesmerizing sight is married women reffering Goddess Durga as “Barir Meye”. This festival honors Goddess Durga, who symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Durga Puja commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, signifying the triumph of good over evil. According to mythology, the gods, unable to defeat Mahishasura, created Durga by combining their powers. Armed with divine weapons and riding a lion, she fought Mahishasura for ten days and finally defeated him.
The festival involves elaborate rituals, artistic pandals (temporary structures), cultural performances, and delectable Bengali cuisine. pandals are constructed and intricately decorated to house the idols of Durga and her children (Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya).This pandals often elaborate things, ranging from traditional to contemporary, reflecting social issues, historical events, or pure artistic creativity.
The celebration culminates in Bijoya Dashami, when the idols are immersed in rivers, signifying the goddess’s return to her abode. Families exchange bijoya greetings, seeking blessings and sharing sweets like sandesh and rosogolla and other delectable Bengali sweets.
Kali puja:
Kali Puja, another major festival, is celebrated on the new moon day of Kartik month, coinciding with Diwali in other parts of India. Devotees worship Goddess Kali, the fierce incarnation of Durga, known for her dark complexion, ferocious countenance, and her role as a destroyer of evil. She represents the ultimate power (Shakti) and is often depicted standing on her consort, Lord Shiva.
Houses and streets are illuminated with lamps and firecrackers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Offerings of meat, fish, and sweets are made to the goddess, and communities come together to celebrate with fervor.
Saraswati Puja:
Dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and arts, Saraswati, is observed in the month of Magh (January-February).
Saraswati is depicted as a serene goddess dressed in white, symbolizing purity and wisdom. She is often shown seated on a lotus or a swan, holding a veena (a musical instrument), a book, a rosary, and a pot of sacred water.
According to mythology, Saraswati emerged from Lord Brahma’s mouth and is considered his consort. She embodies the knowledge required for creation and is revered as the deity who endows human beings with the power of speech, wisdom, and learning.
Students and scholars worship the goddess, placing their books and musical instruments near her idol, seeking her blessings for wisdom and learning. Schools and colleges organize cultural programs, and the day is marked by a festive atmosphere of devotion and creativity.
Rath Yatra:
The chariot festival, is another significant event, especially in the town of Mahesh in Hooghly district. Celebrated in June-July, it involves the procession of Lord.Jagannath’s chariot, accompanied by devotees pulling the massive structure through the streets.
According to mythology, this journey represents the visit of Lord Jagannath, Balarama, and their sister Subhadra to their maternal aunt’s home.
Jagannath’s chariot is called Nandighosa, Balabhadra’s is Taladhwaja, and Subhadra’s is Darpadalana or Padmadhwaja.
The festival is a vibrant display of devotion and unity, drawing crowds from across the state.
Holi:
The festival of colors, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in March. Known as Dol Jatra in Bengal, it involves the playful smearing of colors, singing, and dancing. It marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. The festival usually takes place in March, on the full moon day of the month of Phalguna.
The festival has a special significance in Shantiniketan, where it is celebrated as Basanta Utsav, inspired by Rabindranath Tagore.
Students and faculty of Visva-Bharati University dress in yellow (symbolizing spring) and perform traditional dances, songs, and dramas based on Tagore’s compositions.
Participants smear each other with abir (colored powders) in a subdued and respectful manner, maintaining the elegance and dignity associated with the festival.
Eid-ul-Fitr:
Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are significant festivals for the Muslim community in Bengal. These festivals are marked by prayers, feasts, and communal harmony. The city of Kolkata witnesses large congregations at mosques, and the celebrations are a testament to the state’s inclusive spirit.
Christmas:
Christmas is celebrated with joy, especially in Kolkata, where Park Street becomes a hub of festivities with lights, music, and culinary delights. The Anglo-Indian community and other residents come together to celebrate with carols, midnight mass, and traditional Christmas feasts.
Poila Boisakh:
Poila Boishakh is the Bengali New Year, a vibrant and joyous celebration marking the first day of the Bengali calendar. It typically falls around April 14th or 15th and is widely celebrated in Bengali communities worldwide. Poila Boishakh symbolizes new beginnings and is an auspicious time for Bengalis to start fresh ventures and seek blessings for prosperity and happiness in the coming year.
The festival’s origins are traced back to the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s reign when the Bengali calendar was reformed. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with alpana (traditional patterns made with rice paste), often depicting auspicious symbols like the lotus and the fish.
People wear new clothes, with women often donning traditional sarees and men wearing dhoti or kurta.Special prayers are offered to deities, especially to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being.The tradition of Hal Khata involves opening new ledger books, symbolizing the beginning of the financial year, accompanied by prayers and sweets distribution.
Various fairs are organized, featuring traditional music,Rabindra Sangeet, dance, crafts, and local cuisine. These fairs are a hub of cultural activities, showcasing Bengali heritage.Traditional meals like khichuri and ilish maach (hilsa fish) and many more dishes are made with lots of love and pray for good health.
Baisakhi, marking the Punjabi New Year, is also celebrated in parts of Bengal, reflecting the state’s multicultural ethos. The Sikh community engages in prayers, processions, and communal feasts, adding to the state’s vibrant festival calendar.
মহিষাসুর মর্দিনী:দেবীর জাগরণ
“Mahishasura Mardini” is a beloved radio program that holds a special place in Bengali culture, especially during the Durga Puja festival. First broadcast in 1931, this program has become a cherished tradition for over ninety years, marking the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations in Bengal.
The program is aired on All India Radio (Akashvani) at 4 AM on the day of Mahalaya, the last day of the Pitripaksha (a period of mourning) and the beginning of the Devi Paksha (a period dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga).
Listening to “Mahishasura Mardini” early in the morning has become a ritual for many Bengalis, signifying the start of the festive season.
Birendra Krishna Bhadra,The most iconic version of the program features the deep, resonant voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra. His narration is legendary, and his call to Goddess Durga, accompanied by hymns and chants, creates a spiritual atmosphere that deeply moves listeners.
One of the most famous parts of the program is the chant “Jago Tumi Jago” (Awake, Goddess, awake), which invokes Durga to rise and vanquish the demon Mahishasura.
The story narrated in “Mahishasura Mardini” is derived from the Devi Mahatmyam (or Chandi Path), a part of the Markandeya Purana.
The narrative describes how Goddess Durga was created by the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, who combined their powers to combat the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura, having acquired immense power through penance, terrorized both heaven and earth. The gods, unable to defeat him, created Durga, a divine female warrior, who ultimately slayed the demon, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
The music for “Mahishasura Mardini” was composed by Pankaj Kumar Mullick, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
The program features classical ragas, traditional Bengali devotional songs (shlokas), and instrumental pieces. Instruments such as the tabla, sitar, and harmonium give the program a timeless and traditional quality.
Hymns like “Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu” (O Goddess who resides in all beings) are particularly loved by listeners. These hymns praise the omnipresence and power of the goddess.
The program seamlessly blends Sanskrit shlokas and Bengali songs, appealing to a wide audience.
The theme of “Shakti” or divine feminine energy is powerfully conveyed through the lyrics and music, inspiring reverence and awe among listeners.
Despite the rise of modern media, “Mahishasura Mardini” remains a treasured tradition. Families wake up early on Mahalaya to listen together, creating a sense of community and shared heritage. For many, the sound of Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s voice signals the start of Durga Puja, bringing back fond memories and a strong sense of cultural identity.
In recent years, there have been attempts to modernize the program with new narrators and music. However, the original version remains the most beloved. Efforts to replicate the magic of Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s narration and Pankaj Kumar Mullick’s music have only highlighted the timeless appeal of the original broadcast.
“Mahishasura Mardini” is more than just a radio program; it is a cultural phenomenon that connects Bengalis worldwide. It shows how traditions can endure through time and technology, keeping the spirit of Durga Puja and the victory of good over evil alive. As the opening chant fills the air on Mahalaya morning, listeners are transported to a realm of divine mythology and spiritual awakening, ready to welcome Goddess Durga into their hearts and homes.
RABINDRA JAYANTI:
Rabindra Jayanti is an annual celebration marking the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, one of Bengal’s most revered literary and cultural icons. Observed on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh, usually falling around May 7th or 8th, this day honors Tagore’s immense contributions to literature, music, art, and culture.
Born in 1861, Rabindranath Tagore was a polymath whose work reshaped Bengali literature and music, and introduced contextual modernism in Indian art during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.Tagore was the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems, “Gitanjali.”
The day typically begins with tributes at Tagore’s ancestral home, Jorasanko Thakur Bari in Kolkata. This house is now a museum dedicated to his life and works.A series of cultural programs, including poetry recitations, musical performances, and dance dramas, are organized at Jorasanko, setting the tone.
School,Colleges,other institutions hold special assemblies where students perform Rabindra Sangeet (Tagore’s songs), dance to his compositions, and enact scenes from his plays.
Various cultural institutions across Bengal organize events to honor Tagore’s legacy, including recitations, musical performances, and theatrical adaptations of his works.Streets and neighborhoods come alive with processions known as Prabhat Pheris, where people sing Tagore’s songs, spreading his message of peace and unity.
Cultural organizations and societies host seminars and discussions to delve into Tagore’s literary and philosophical contributions.Television and radio channels broadcast special programs dedicated to Tagore’s works, ensuring his voice and vision reach a broad audience.
In Shantiniketan, Students and faculty of Visva-Bharati University participate in elaborate cultural programs that echo Tagore’s vision of holistic education, integrating art, culture, and learning. Traditional performances of Rabindra Sangeet and dance dramas based on his plays are performed.
Rabindra Jayanti is not merely a day of remembrance but a vibrant celebration of Tagore’s enduring legacy. His works, infused with deep philosophical and cultural themes, continue to inspire people of all ages.
Bengalis across the world come together to celebrate their cultural heritage and the timeless wisdom encapsulated in Tagore’s works, reinforcing the relevance of his thoughts on humanity, nature, and spirituality.
BHAI PHONTA:
Bhai Phonta is a cherished festival in Bengal that celebrates the deep and enduring bond between brothers and sisters. Celebrated on the second day after Kali Puja (Diwali), Bhai Phonta involves traditional rituals, prayers, and family reunions, highlighting the importance of familial relationships in Bengali culture.
The festival emphasizes the affectionate and protective relationship between siblings, particularly between brothers and sisters. Sisters rise early to prepare for the day’s ceremonies, which include gathering the necessary items for the ritual and preparing festive foods.
The ritual of Bhai Phonta involves sisters applying a ceremonial mark, or phonta, on their brothers’ foreheads. This mark is made from a paste of sandalwood, vermilion (sindoor), and rice. While applying the phonta, sisters chant sacred mantras and offer prayers for their brothers’ well- being, health, prosperity, and long life. A commonly recited mantra during this ritual is:
ভাইয়ের কপালে দিলাম ফোঁটা,
যমের দুয়ারে পড়ল কাঁটা,
যমুনা দেয় যমকে ফোঁটা,
আমি দি আমার ভাইকে ফোঁটা!
After the ritual, brothers express their gratitude and affection by giving gifts to their sisters. These gifts range from sweets and clothes to jewellery and money, symbolizing the brothers’ appreciation and promise of protection.
Family gatherings are an integral part of Bhai Phonta. Relatives come together to share elaborate meals featuring traditional Bengali dishes such as luchi (fried flatbread), aloo dum (spicy potato curry), bhaja (fried vegetables), and various fish and meat preparations. Sweets like rosogolla, sandesh, and chomchom are indispensable to the festive spread, enhancing the joyous atmosphere.
Bhai Phonta is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of the enduring bond between siblings. Through its rituals, prayers, and family gatherings, Bhai Phonta highlights the importance of love, protection, and appreciation in sibling relationships. This festival not only strengthens familial bonds but also enriches the cultural fabric of Bengal, making it a cherished tradition for generations.
Bengal State Foundation Day is a celebration that transcends mere historical commemoration; it embodies the essence of a region that has been a crucible of culture, intellect, and resilience. From its rich culinary traditions to its vibrant festivals, Bengal offers a unique blend of the ancient and the contemporary, the traditional and the modern. As we honor this day, we not only reflect on the storied past of Bengal but also look forward with hope and determination to a future where its diverse heritage continues to thrive. This day reminds us of the importance of unity in diversity, the power of cultural identity, and the relentless pursuit of progress. As Bengal moves forward, it does so with a deep respect for its roots and a clear vision for its future, ensuring that the spirit of Bengal remains ever bright and inspiring. Happy Bengal State Foundation Day
or rather Subho Paschimbanga Dibos.
Bengal state foundation day বা পশ্চিমবঙ্গ দিবস এক ঐতিহাসিক পদক্ষেপের সাক্ষী।যা আদতেই এমন এক অঞ্চলকে প্রতিনিধিত্ব করে যার সংস্কৃতি খুবই উৎকৃষ্টমানের এবং যার শিল্প ও বহুরূপতার খ্যাতি বিশ্বজোড়া। সাংস্কৃতিক সাবলীলতা,উৎসবের জোয়ার বাংলাকে নিজস্ব পরিচয় দিয়েছে।নাটক,গানবাজনা,নৃতিশৈলী প্রত্যেক ক্ষেত্রেই বাংলার অবদান স্মরণীয়। অতিথি আপ্যায়ন ,ধুনুচি নাচ, ছৌ নৃত্য এইসব কিছুই বাংলাকে এক নতুন মাত্রা দিয়েছে। তাই দিনটিকে উদযাপনের মধ্যে দিয়ে যেমন আমরা বাংলার ঐতিহাসিক গুরুত্ব নিয়ে আলোচনা করব,তেমনি আগামী দিনের সমৃদ্ধ বাংলা কেও তুলে ধরবো,যেখানে বাঙালি বিশ্বগুরু হয়ে নতুন পথ দেখাবে।এই দিনটি আমাদের ঐক্য,সাংস্কৃতিক পরিচয় এবং উপলব্ধির কথা মনে করায়।আশা করি যত সময়গড়াবে,বাংলার মানুষ বাংলাকে ভালোবেসে উন্নতির চরম শিখরে নিয়ে যাবে।ভারতবাসী বাংলার দেখানো পথ অনুসরণ করবে।শুভ পশ্চিমবঙ্গ দিবস
মোদের গর্ব,মোদের আশা
আমরি বাংলা ভাষা
CREDITS :
➔ SHUVAM MITRA
➔ ARPAN GOSWAMI
➔SHUBHAM GANGULY
➔ SANJANA DEY
➔ ABESH BHATTACHARYA
VOTE OF THANKS:
DR. SANGEETA MUKHERJEE (FACULTY COORDINATOR)
