📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prashant pardeshi
Religion
Bali Pratipada: King Bali's Return Marks Gujarati New Year Celebrations
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 10 Nov 2026, 08:46 PM
👁 12
Bali Pratipada, also known as the Gujarati New Year, commemorates the mythological return of King Bali to Earth. The occasion is marked by religious rituals and cultural celebrations across Gujarat.
Bali Pratipada holds significant religious and cultural importance in India, particularly in the state of Gujarat. The festival is widely celebrated as the Gujarati New Year, marking the beginning of a new lunar year in the regional calendar.
The primary narrative associated with this day is the return of King Bali, a powerful Asura king, to the mortal world. According to Hindu mythology, King Bali was granted a boon by Lord Vishnu to visit Earth once a year, which is believed to coincide with this specific date.
Devotees observe the day by performing special puja and rituals to honor King Bali, seeking his blessings for prosperity and well-being. The occasion is not just a religious observance but also a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and partake in traditional festivities.
In Gujarat, the day is characterized by vibrant cultural events, traditional music, and the wearing of new clothes. It serves as a major social and spiritual event that reinforces community bonds and cultural heritage.
The primary narrative associated with this day is the return of King Bali, a powerful Asura king, to the mortal world. According to Hindu mythology, King Bali was granted a boon by Lord Vishnu to visit Earth once a year, which is believed to coincide with this specific date.
Devotees observe the day by performing special puja and rituals to honor King Bali, seeking his blessings for prosperity and well-being. The occasion is not just a religious observance but also a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and partake in traditional festivities.
In Gujarat, the day is characterized by vibrant cultural events, traditional music, and the wearing of new clothes. It serves as a major social and spiritual event that reinforces community bonds and cultural heritage.