What is Gujarati New Year?
Gujarati New Year, known as Bestu Varas, marks the beginning of the Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar. It is celebrated on the first day (Pratipada) of the Shukla Paksha in Kartik month, which usually falls the day after Diwali.
For Gujaratis, it is not just a change in the calendar — it represents new beginnings, positivity, and prosperity.
Religious and Cultural Significance
According to Hindu mythology, the festival is connected with the story of Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar and King Bali. Lord Vishnu blessed King Bali to rule the underworld (Patal Lok) and declared the start of a new era — symbolizing the victory of light and truth.
On this day, people forgive old grudges, visit temples, and start fresh — spiritually and financially.
Importance for Business Community
For the Gujarati business community, Gujarati New Year is considered the most auspicious day of the year.
Traders and shopkeepers perform the traditional “Chopda Pujan” (account book worship) to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity in the coming year.
New business ledgers are opened, marking a clean start for future transactions.
Many also perform Kuber Puja, praying for wealth and financial stability.
Family Celebrations and Customs
- Homes are decorated with rangoli, diyas, and flowers.
- People wear new clothes and offer prayers in the morning.
- Families visit relatives and exchange greetings saying “Saal Mubarak” (Happy New Year).
- Delicious sweets like ghughra, laddoo, fafda-jalebi, and other festive dishes are prepared.
Puja and Rituals
- Early morning Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja is performed to welcome wealth and good fortune.
- Chopda Pujan is done with mantras and diya-lighting for business prosperity.
- The day concludes with family gatherings, temple visits, and lighting lamps for peace and happiness.
The Gujarati New Year or Bestu Varas is a celebration of renewal, joy, and spiritual balance. It inspires people to let go of negativity, embrace gratitude, and start anew with faith and enthusiasm.
Let this Gujarati New Year bring peace, progress, and prosperity to your life!
Wishing You a Very Happy Gujarati New Year!
“Saal Mubarak”
— May the New Year fill your life with light and abundance.
