It's Kutchy New Year : The Sweetness of Ashadhi Beej

Image courtesy: Gujarat Tourism

You know how most of us just got done with the “regular” New Year back in January? Well, in Kutch, a vibrant region in Gujarat, the celebrations are about to begin all over again! If you’re wondering why, it’s because today, Ashadhi Beej, marks the auspicious New Year for the Kutchi community.

It’s not just a date on a calendar; it’s a feeling, a tradition, and a deep connection to the land and its unique rhythm.

What is Ashadhi Beej?

Ashadhi Beej falls on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu calendar month of Ashadha. This usually lands in July, right around the time when the monsoon winds start to bestow the dry lands of Kutch, bringing with them the promise of rain and renewed life. For a region that deeply relies on agriculture and water, the arrival of these first monsoon signs is nothing short of a new beginning – a true new year.

It’s a day of immense significance, celebrated with joy, prayers, and cultural fervor. The Kutchi community, whether in Kutch or spread across the globe, marks this day by remembering their roots and celebrating their unique identity.

More Than Just a Date: A Celebration of Life and Culture

Ashadhi Beej is a beautiful blend of tradition and hope. It’s a time when:

Farmers look to the skies: The initial showers around this time are crucial for the crops, making it a day of prayer and hope for a bountiful harvest.
New ventures begin: Many Kutchi businesses and individuals consider Ashadhi Beej an auspicious day to start new ventures or make important decisions.
Families come together: It’s a day for family gatherings, traditional meals, and exchanging heartfelt wishes.
Cultural roots are reinforced: Songs, dances, and customs unique to Kutch are performed, strengthening community bonds and passing traditions to the younger generation.

The Heart of Kutch: “Sweet are our people, sweet are our ways”

There’s a beautiful Kutchi saying that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this day and the people:

“મીઠા અસંજા માણું ને મીઠી અસાંજી રીત,

મીઠો અસાંજો કચ્છ ને મીઠી અસાંજી અષાઢી બીજ.”

This translates to:

“Sweet are our people, and sweet are our ways,

Sweet is our Kutch, and sweet is our Ashadhi Beej.”

It speaks volumes about the warmth, hospitality, and distinctive cultural fabric of Kutch and its people. It’s a reminder that amidst all the global influences, the essence of Kutchi identity remains strong and, well, sweet.

Wishing Everyone a Joyous New Year!

So, as the Kutchi community celebrates this special day, let’s join them in wishing for prosperity, peace, and happiness. May the new year bring abundant blessings, just like the monsoon showers that rejuvenate the land of Kutch.

Happy Ashadhi Beej to all celebrating!

My Best Wishes for All of You..

Vishal.