Ashadhi Bij: The Kutchi New Year

Kutchi New Year is observed every year on second day of shukla paksha or waxing phase of moon in Ashada month. In 2021, it was observed on July 12.

Key Points

• This Hindu New Year is observed in Kutch region of Gujarat.
• Vikram Samvat 2078 started from June 12, 2021 in Kutch region.
• In other parts of Gujarat, Hindu New Year is observed on day after Diwali that is Kartik Shukla Paksha 1.
• Kutchi New Year is a traditional affair and is observed in homes.
• Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi and other regional deities are worshipped on the occasion.
• This festival of Gujarat should not be confused with “Ashadhi Ekadashi Festival in Maharashtra”.

Significance of Kutchi New Year

• This festival marks the beginning of rains in Kutch region of Gujarat.
• During Ashadhi Bij, moisture in atmosphere is checked to predict which crop would yield better in coming monsoon.

Ashadhi Ekadashi Festival in Maharashtra

Ashadhi Ekadashi is an important religious festival, celebrated in State of Maharashtra. It is generally held at Pandharpur where devotees gather to celebrate this festival. This religious procession festival is held every year during Ashadha Shukla paksha. Usually, Ekadashi is considered as coming on each month of a year but eleventh day of Ashadh is considered as great Ekadashi. This is also called by name “Shayani Ekadashi”. On this day, day long fast is practiced and devotee go walking in huge processions to Pandharpur. The procession starts in Allandi and ends on Guru Poornima at Pandharpur.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2021