12 Month Name In Bengali – [Update 2023]

Bengali, one of the most widely spoken languages in the Indian subcontinent, has a rich cultural heritage that includes a unique calendar system. The Bengali calendar, also known as the Bangla calendar, follows a lunisolar system and is deeply rooted in Bengali traditions and festivals.

One of the distinctive features of this calendar is the naming of the months, which holds great significance in the cultural fabric of Bengali society. Each month in the Bengali calendar carries its own unique name, often inspired by nature, religious beliefs, or historical events. In this article, we will explore the 12 month name in Bengali, their meanings, and their connection to the vibrant Bengali culture.

List of 12 Month Name In Bengali

Bengali, one of the most widely spoken languages in the Indian subcontinent, has its own unique set of month names. From Boishakh to Chaitra, each month holds cultural and historical significance for Bengali-speaking communities around the world. This list provides a comprehensive guide to the 12 month names in Bengali, allowing readers to explore and appreciate the rich linguistic heritage of this vibrant language.

1. Boishakh (বৈশাখ):

Boishakh marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar and falls in the months of April and May. It is a time of new beginnings and is associated with agricultural activities, as it is the season of harvest. The month of Boishakh is significant for Bengalis as it hosts the grand celebration of Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year.

2. Jyoishtho (জ্যৈষ্ঠ):

Jyoishtho corresponds to the months of May and June in the Gregorian calendar. This month is known for its soaring temperatures and the onset of the monsoon season. Jyoishtho is associated with the blooming of flowers and various festivals and cultural events.

3. Asharh (আষাঢ়):

Asharh falls in June and July and is characterized by heavy rainfall. It is a significant month for farmers as it marks the beginning of the cultivation season. This month is also associated with the famous Bengali festival of Rath Yatra, which involves the grand procession of Lord Jagannath.

4. Shraban (শ্রাবণ):

Shraban spans July and August and is considered an auspicious month in the Bengali calendar. It is associated with the monsoon season, and the lush greenery symbolizes fertility and abundance. This month is particularly important for worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and is known for the celebration of Raksha Bandhan.

5. Bhadro (ভাদ্র):

Bhadro corresponds to August and September and marks the end of the monsoon season. This month is associated with agricultural activities, as farmers begin preparing their lands for sowing seeds. Bhadro is also significant for Hindus as it hosts the festival of Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna.

6. Ashwin (আশ্বিন):

Ashwin falls in September and October and is a month of transition from monsoon to autumn. It is associated with the onset of festivals like Durga Puja and Navratri. Ashwin is considered a highly auspicious month and is known for its cultural fervor and elaborate celebrations.

7. Kartik (কার্তিক):

Kartik spans October and November and is considered a sacred month in Hinduism. It is associated with various religious observances, particularly the lighting of lamps or diyas. This month is also significant for the celebration of Kali Puja and Diwali, the festival of lights.

8. Agrahayon (অগ্রহায়ণ):

Agrahayon corresponds to November and December and signifies the transition from autumn to winter. This month is associated with harvesting activities, as crops are ready for collection. Agrahayon is also significant for Bengalis as it hosts the celebration of Jagadhatri Puja, dedicated to Goddess Jagadhatri.

9. Poush (পৌষ):

Poush falls in December and January and marks the beginning of winter. This month is associated with the blooming of vibrant flowers like the Shiuli, which is considered auspicious. Poush is known for the famous Bengali harvest festival called Makar Sankranti or Poush Parbon.

10. Magh (মাঘ):

Magh spans January and February and is characterized by cool winter days. This month is associated with the celebration of Saraswati Puja, dedicated to the Goddess of knowledge, music, and arts. Magh is also known for the festival of Basant Panchami, symbolizing the arrival of spring.

11. Falgun (ফাল্গুন):

Falgun corresponds to February and March and marks the onset of spring. This month is associated with the blooming of colorful flowers like Palash and Shimul. Falgun is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and the festival of Holi, known as Dol Purnima or Basanta Utsav, is a major highlight.

12. Chaitra (চৈত্র):

Chaitra falls in March and April and is the last month of the Bengali calendar. It signifies the end of winter and the arrival of the spring season. Chaitra is associated with the celebration of various festivals, including the Bengali New Year’s Eve called Chaitra Sankranti or Noboborsho.

Unique traditions and festivals associated with Bengali months

Bengali culture is rich in unique traditions and festivals that are deeply intertwined with the 12 month name in Bengali calendar. Here are some notable traditions and festivals celebrated in Bengal:

Pohela Boishakh:

Pohela Boishakh is the celebration of the Bengali New Year, which takes place on the first day of the month of Boishakh (April-May). It is a vibrant festival characterized by colorful processions, music, dance, and cultural performances. People dress in traditional attire, and various cultural programs and fairs are organized to welcome the new year with joy and enthusiasm.

Durga Puja:

Durga Puja is the most significant and widely celebrated festival in Bengal, particularly during the month of Ashwin (September-October). It commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon, Mahishasura. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are constructed to house beautifully crafted idols of Goddess Durga and her divine entourage. The festival is marked by cultural performances, music, dance, rituals, and grand processions.

Saraswati Puja:

Saraswati Puja is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, arts, and learning. It is celebrated during the month of Magh (January-February). Students, artists, and scholars worship the goddess to seek her blessings for wisdom and academic success. Books, musical instruments, and tools of art are placed before the goddess, and cultural programs featuring music, dance, and poetry are organized in schools, colleges, and communities.

Kali Puja:

Kali Puja is a significant festival dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Goddess Durga. It is celebrated during the month of Kartik (October-November). The festival involves intense worship of Goddess Kali with tantric rituals and offerings. The night of Kali Puja is marked by the lighting of lamps, fireworks, and cultural performances.

Rath Yatra:

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is celebrated during the month of Asharh (June-July). It involves the procession of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra on elaborately decorated chariots. Devotees pull the chariots through the streets while chanting hymns and singing devotional songs. The festival is particularly significant in the town of Puri in Odisha, where the famous Jagannath Temple is located.

Noboborsho:

Noboborsho, meaning “New Year,” is the celebration of the Bengali New Year’s Eve, which takes place on the last day of the month of Chaitra (March-April). It is a time of joy and festivity, with cultural programs, music, dance, and food. People exchange greetings and well-wishes, visit friends and family, and indulge in traditional Bengali delicacies.

Basanta Utsav:

Basanta Utsav, also known as Holi or Dol Purnima, is celebrated during the month of Falgun (February-March). It is a festival of colors and marks the arrival of spring. People playfully smear each other with vibrant colored powders, sing and dance, and enjoy the beauty of nature in full bloom. Basanta Utsav is particularly famous in the town of Shantiniketan, where it was popularized by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Popular baby names inspired by the months

Naming babies after months is a popular trend in many cultures, including Bengali culture. Here are some popular baby names inspired by the months that you might find interesting:

1. Baishakhi (বৈশাখী) – Derived from “Boishakh,” the first month of the Bengali calendar.
2. Jyotsna (জ্যোৎস্না) – Meaning “moonlight,” inspired by the month of Jyoishtho.
3. Asharhi (আষাঢ়ী) – A name derived from the month of Asharh, associated with the monsoon season.
4. Sraboni (শ্রাবণী) – Meaning “rainy,” inspired by the month of Shraban.
5. Bhadra (ভাদ্র) – Derived from the month of Bhadro, symbolizing abundance and harvest.
6. Ashwin (অশ্বিন) – Inspired by the month of Ashwin, associated with festivals and celebrations.
7. Karthik (কার্তিক) – Derived from the month of Kartik, associated with auspiciousness.
8. Agraja (অগ্রজা) – Meaning “born in Agrahayon,” inspired by the month of Agrahayon.
9. Poushali (পৌষালী) – Derived from the month of Poush, symbolizing the winter season.
10. Megh (মেঘ) – Meaning “cloud,” inspired by the rainy month of Asharh.
11. Falguni (ফাল্গুনী) – Derived from the month of Falgun, associated with the arrival of spring.
12. Chaitali (চৈতালি) – Inspired by the month of Chaitra, symbolizing the end of winter.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the 12 month names in Bengali are not only unique and meaningful, but they also reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Bengali people. Each month has its own significance and is associated with various festivals, traditions, and rituals. By understanding these 12 month name in Bengali, we gain a deeper appreciation for the language and culture of Bengal.

So next time you come across a Bengali calendar or hear someone mention 12 month name in Bengali, take a moment to learn more about its meaning and significance. Embrace the beauty of diversity and let it enrich your understanding of different cultures.

FAQs

Are the Bengali months based on the Gregorian calendar?

No, the Bengali months are not based on the Gregorian calendar. They follow the Bengali calendar, which is a solar calendar and differs from the internationally recognized Gregorian calendar

What is the significance of the Bengali month names?

The 12 month name in Bengali hold cultural and traditional significance. They are often associated with various festivals, rituals, and agricultural practices in the Bengali community.

Do the Bengali month names have any numerical equivalents?

Yes, the Bengali months are often associated with numerical values in the traditional Bengali calendar system. These numerical equivalents are used in various astrological and religious calculations.