Why is it called ‘Bengali Valentine’s Day’
According to the Hindu calendar, Saraswati Puja is celebrated on Shukla Panchami of Magh month. Goddess Saraswati is considered the goddess of knowledge, music and art. But in West Bengal this puja has also taken a different social color with time. While many people consider Valentine’s Week to be excessively commercial, Saraswati Puja is still associated with simplicity, tradition and emotions.
This day is not only a religious but also a cultural festival in entire Bengal including Kolkata. Youth roaming in pandals, laughter and fun, and the opportunity to understand relationships without any pressure, this is what makes Saraswati Puja special. Perhaps this is why it is called the unofficial Valentine’s Day of Bengal, where love is reflected in simplicity rather than showiness.