Gujarati New Year, also known as Bestu Varas or Varsha Pratipada, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor among the Gujarati community. Falling the day after Diwali, this special occasion marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat New Year. For Gujaratis worldwide, this festival holds deep significance as it symbolizes the start of a new financial year, fresh beginnings, and the renewal of faith, prosperity, and joy. In 2024, Gujarati New Year falls on Friday, November 1.

Significance of Gujarati New Year

The Gujarati New Year aligns with the Hindu lunar calendar and occurs during the Kartik month, beginning on Kartik Sud Ekam (first day of Kartik). Traditionally, it’s believed that Lord Krishna and the Vrajvasi people started this festival to honor the significance of nature and prosperity. For Gujarati families, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the past year, seek blessings for a prosperous future, and celebrate with loved ones.

The day is also known as Govardhan Puja in other parts of India, commemorating Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect the people of Gokul. This narrative further connects the festival to themes of protection, nature, and divine blessings for the year ahead.

How Gujaratis Celebrate New Year

Gujarati New Year is a rich tapestry of traditions, rituals, and joyful gatherings. Here are some key elements that make this celebration unique:

1. Starting the Day with Rituals

The day often begins with an early morning visit to the temple, where devotees seek blessings from deities for good fortune. People offer prayers, recite shlokas, and perform aarti, expressing gratitude for the past year and invoking blessings for the new one.

2. Chopda Pujan: Renewing Financial Accounts

A central custom during Gujarati New Year is Chopda Pujan, or the ceremonial blessing of account books. Businesspeople, especially traders, worship their financial books as a gesture of respect to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Nowadays, digital account ledgers are also blessed, reflecting a blend of tradition and modernity.

3. Decorations and Rangoli Designs

Homes are adorned with vibrant rangoli designs, often featuring patterns inspired by nature, religious symbols, and colors that represent prosperity. Decorative torans (door hangings) made of marigold flowers and mango leaves also grace doorways, inviting positive energy into the home.

4. Festive Feasting and Sweets

No Gujarati festival is complete without a grand feast! Families prepare traditional sweets like moong dal halwa, basundi, and ghughra (sweet dumplings), alongside savory dishes such as undhiyu, a classic mixed vegetable dish that showcases Gujarat’s rich culinary heritage. Sharing sweets with neighbors and friends fosters a sense of community and togetherness.

5. Exchanging Gifts and New Clothes

Just like Diwali, the Gujarati New Year is a time for new clothes and exchanging gifts. Wearing new attire signifies leaving behind the old year and stepping into the new one with a refreshed spirit. Exchanging gifts like sweets, dry fruits, and decorations strengthens bonds with family and friends.

6. Dhan Pooja and Welcoming Goddess Lakshmi

The evening of the Gujarati New Year often includes Dhan Pooja, where families offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi for a year filled with prosperity, peace, and happiness. Lamps are lit, and devotional songs are sung, filling homes with a serene, uplifting ambiance.

Wishes for New Beginnings: A Reflection of Joy and Gratitude

Gujarati New Year is a time to connect with family, express gratitude for the blessings received, and welcome the new year with hope and positivity. Many families gather together, sharing memories, laughter, and hopes for a better future. It’s also customary to forgive past grievances and start afresh, honoring the spirit of unity and compassion.

Celebrating Gujarati New Year Across the Globe

For Gujaratis living outside of India, especially in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, celebrating New Year is a beautiful way to stay connected with cultural roots. Indian communities organize aarti, cultural events, and festive dinners, recreating the joy and vibrance of the celebrations back home. Social media platforms are filled with warm greetings, blessings, and photos that showcase the global Gujarati community celebrating together in spirit.

Gujarati New Year 2024: A Time for Personal Reflection and Growth

As Gujarati families around the world light diyas and share sweet treats, it’s also a chance to focus on personal goals and set new resolutions. Whether it’s prioritizing health, deepening family bonds, or embracing new ventures, the Gujarati New Year encourages everyone to step forward with a spirit of positivity and resilience.

Closing Thoughts

Gujarati New Year is not just a festival; it’s a cherished tradition that represents renewal, joy, and togetherness. In 2024, as Gujaratis ring in their new year, they carry forward the timeless values of gratitude, prosperity, and community. May this Bestu Varas bring peace, prosperity, and endless opportunities to everyone celebrating!