Bengali culture is rich in traditions and celebrations, and there are many cultural events that take place throughout the year. These events provide a platform for artists and performers to showcase their talents, and they also bring people together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Bengal. The Bengali diaspora in Australia also celebrates these cultural events throughout the year
What do Bengali cultural events look like?
One of the most significant cultural events in the Bengali calendar is “Ekushe February” (21st February). On 21st February every year, the world celebrates International Mother Language Day with great enthusiasm and pride. The day is significant as it commemorates the language movement of 1952 in East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh. The movement was a protest against the imposition of Urdu as the sole official language, leading to the deaths of several activists who fought for the recognition of Bengali as a language.
Today, the people of Bengal observe the day with utmost respect and honor for their mother tongue, which is an integral part of their cultural identity. Various events, including rallies, cultural programs, and seminars, are organized to promote the Bengali language and its rich history. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting linguistic diversity, as it is the foundation of our cultural heritage. The Bangladeshi community across Australia celebrates this day every year with lots of cultural events commemorating the sacrifices of the “bhasha shahids (language martyrs)”.
The other significant event in the Bengali calendar is the Bengali New Year, also known as “Poila/Pohela Boishakh”. This event is celebrated on the 14th of April every year, and it marks the beginning of the Bengali calendar.
The Bengali New Year is a time for joy and merriment, and the celebrations usually last for several days. The streets of Kolkata and Dhaka, the cultural capitals of West Bengal and Bangladesh, are adorned with colorful decorations and people dress up in traditional attires. The festivities include music, dance, food, and various other cultural events.
The Bengali New Year is also celebrated with a lot of vigour in major Australian cities. The programs usually include recitals of Bengali poetry, songs, and dances. There are also performances by famous artists and cultural personalities traveling all the way from the sub-continent to participate in the festivities.
Another important Bengali cultural festival is Rabindra Jayanti. Rabindra Jayanti is an annual cultural festival celebrated in India and Bangladesh to commemorate the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned poet, writer, philosopher, and polymath. It falls on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh (April-May).
The day is marked by various cultural programs, including music and dance performances, recitals of Tagore’s poems, and plays based on his literary works. Schools, colleges, and cultural organizations organize events to celebrate the day.
Rabindra Jayanti is not only a celebration of Tagore’s birth but also a tribute to his contribution to the world of literature and his vision for a harmonious society. His works continue to inspire generations and his legacy lives on through these celebrations.
How can I take part in Bengali cultural events?
BFA regularly organises cultural events connecting the Bengali diaspora from India and Bangladesh, living down under.
Send us an enquiry if you want to participate or simply want to soak in the flavour of Bengal as an audience.