Happy Gujarati New Year Wishes: Celebrate Joy!

The Gujarati New Year, also known as Bestu Varas or Nutan Varsh, is a vibrant celebration marking the beginning of a new accounting year and a fresh start in the lives of Gujaratis worldwide. It falls on the day after Diwali, usually in late October or early November, and is a time filled with joyous festivities, delicious food, and heartfelt wishes for prosperity and happiness.

Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Gujarati New Year is based on the lunar calendar, specifically the Kartik month. This makes it a unique cultural event steeped in tradition and religious significance. It's a day when families come together, homes are adorned with colorful decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional sweets and snacks.

The Significance of Bestu Varas

Bestu Varas isn't just about celebrating a new year; it's about reaffirming bonds, seeking blessings, and setting intentions for the year ahead. Businesses often start new account books (Chopda Pujan) on this day, seeking prosperity and success in their ventures. It’s considered auspicious to begin new endeavors or make significant investments on this day.

One of my earliest memories is waking up on Bestu Varas to the smell of freshly made "shrikhand" and the sight of my grandmother drawing intricate rangoli patterns outside our door. The entire house buzzed with excitement as relatives and friends visited, exchanging sweets and well wishes. It was a time of pure joy and togetherness, a tradition I cherish to this day.

Sharing the Joy: Happy Gujarati New Year Wishes

Expressing your good wishes is an integral part of the Gujarati New Year celebration. Whether you're sharing a heartfelt message in person, sending a thoughtful text, or posting on social media, your words can bring a smile to someone's face and brighten their day. Here are some ideas for spreading cheer with your own happy gujarati new year wishes:

• Traditional Greetings: "Nutan Varsh Abhinandan!" This is the most common and widely accepted greeting for the Gujarati New Year.
• Blessings for Prosperity: "Saal Mubarak!" wishing someone a prosperous and blessed year ahead.
• Personalized Messages: Tailor your wishes to the individual. Acknowledge their accomplishments, express your appreciation, and offer specific hopes for their future. For example, "Wishing you and your family a Nutan Varsh filled with health, happiness, and success in all your endeavors."
• Humorous Wishes: A touch of humor can lighten the mood and add a personal touch. Just be sure to keep it respectful and appropriate.

Beyond Words: Gestures of Goodwill

While words are powerful, actions speak even louder. Consider complementing your happy gujarati new year wishes with a thoughtful gesture:

• Sweets and Treats: Sharing traditional Gujarati sweets like "mohanthal," "ghari," or "shrikhand" is a classic way to express your good wishes.
• Home Visits: Visiting friends and family to offer your greetings in person strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of community.
• Donations and Charity: Contributing to a worthy cause in the spirit of giving and compassion is a meaningful way to celebrate the New Year.

Modern Celebrations: Adapting to the Times

While tradition remains at the heart of the Gujarati New Year, modern celebrations have adapted to reflect the changing times. Digital greetings, online video calls, and social media posts have become increasingly popular ways to connect with loved ones near and far.

Even though I now live far from my family, I make it a point to connect with them on Bestu Varas via video call. We share stories, exchange wishes, and even try to recreate some of our favorite traditional dishes together. It's not quite the same as being there in person, but it helps me feel connected to my roots and keep the spirit of the celebration alive.

The Enduring Spirit of Bestu Varas