Poila Boishakh brings back a flood of memories,” shares actress Solanki Roy who has always celebrated the Bengali New Year with great enthusiasm, surrounded by family and friends. From early morning rituals at her mama bari to helping her grandmother make sweets, every tradition holds a special place in her heart. In a candid chat with CT she reflects on what this day means to her – a celebration steeped in culture, family bonds, festive food, and emotional renewal.
New outfits, a lavish lunch and fun with cousins — Poila Boishakh at mama bari
Every year, Poila Boishakh brings a wave of nostalgia for Solanki. Recalling the celebrations at her mama bari, she says, “There would be an early morning puja after which we would dress up in new cotton outfits. This was followed by a lavish Bengali lunch spread, and loads of fun with my cousins. In the evening, we would visit various shops with my mother and aunts for haalkhata. Collecting sweet boxes and new calendars from jewellery stores also used to be so much fun. And of course, having a Gold Spot was a must!”
Sweets, memories, and thamma’s love
For Solanki, food – especially sweets – is an integral part of celebrating the Bengali New Year. “On Naboborsho, my paternal grandmother would make sweets at home. She had this beautiful collection of stone-carved blocks for shaping the sweets. I still have them, and they’re very precious to me. I try making some of the sweets she taught me, but they never quite taste like hers. I miss my grandparents so much during Naboborsho. Most of my childhood memories are wrapped up in those moments with them.”
Laal sari, traditions, and blessings — Solanki’s Naboborsho celebrations
“Naboborsho symbolises prosperity, abundance, and fresh beginnings — celebrated with rituals, music, dance, and festive food,” says Solanki, whose day is incomplete without a bright sari. “Traditional attire is a must at home — men in kurta-pyjamas, women in saris, often red and white. Though now, we play around with blouse styles,” she smiles. She fondly recalls her grandparents starting the day with a thorough home cleaning, fresh bed linen, and an early morning bath — a tradition the family still follows. “The home temple is adorned with alpana, flowers, and mango leaf garlands for good luck. I also visit temples every year to seek blessings for a fresh start,” she adds.
Nowadays, we host a grand family get-together at home. Sadly, this year, my parents are away on holiday, and I’ve had to stay back because of work. I’ll probably call over a few close friends and cook for them : Solanki
My resolution is always centred around the prosperity and well-being of my family. To me, it’s more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a full-on cultural and emotional vibe : Solanki
Pix: Tathagata Ghosh
Location courtesy: Bonne Femme
Sweets courtesy: Balaram Mullick and Radharaman Mullick