Bihar Diwas 2024: Bihar Diwas, or Bihar Day, is celebrated on March 22 to mark the formation of the state of Bihar. It is a public holiday in the state. On this day, the British carved out the state of Bihar from Bengal in 1912. This year, the 110th Bihar Diwas will be observed. It will be celebrated with enthusiasm at Gandhi Maidan and Sri Krishna Memorial from March 22 to March 24.
The Sanskrit and Pali word vihara, which means "abode," is the source of the name Bihar. In the ancient and medieval eras, there were numerous Buddhist viharas, or monks' homes, in the area roughly encompassing the present state.
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Bihar Diwas 2024: History
In 1912, the British carved out the state of Bihar from Bengal on March 22. The government of Bihar decided to observe the foundation day of the state in the year 2010. The aim of the day was to restore the pride of the state and to enthuse the feeling of being Bihari in the citizens of the state.
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Why Bihar Diwas is celebrated on March 22?
King George V was crowned in Delhi in 1911, and Calcutta was replaced as the seat of British India's government. The Bengali-speaking regions came together according to Lord Hardinge's proposal as the political focus shifted from Calcutta and Bengal to Delhi. This decision to divide the Bengali-speaking regions from the other distinct linguistic regions was announced on March 21, 1912, by Thomas Gibson Carmichael, the new governor of Bengal. The action eventually resulted in the creation of the states of Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam. Because this day commemorates the recognition of Bihar's unique regional and linguistic identity, the Bihar government chose March 22 to be marked and celebrated as Bihar diwas or Bihar day.
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Bihar Diwas 2024: Celebration
The day is cheerfully observed by locals and notable individuals with a plethora of cultural events held in educational facilities and public spaces. Every year, the Bihar government issues a notification designating March 22 as a public holiday to be observed as Bihar Day. All offices and companies that fall under the purview of the State and Central Governments, as well as Schools, observe this holiday. Apart from Bihar, the Bihari diaspora celebrates the day over the globe. Here is a breakdown of how this day is celebrated:
- Official Ceremonies: The Bihar government takes centre stage, organizing grand functions and cultural extravaganzas. Speeches, special prayers, and cultural performances often mark these official events.
- Community Events: The spirit of Bihar Diwas reaches beyond officialdom. Local communities, educational institutions, and organizations host their own programs, including folk music and dance presentations, debates, and art exhibitions.
- Showcasing Tradition: Bihar Diwas serves as a platform to celebrate the state's unique cultural heritage. Traditional folk dances like Chhau and Bhorbhoj, along with regional cuisines like Litti Chokha, take centre stage during these celebrations.
- Global Biharis Unite: The celebration extends beyond geographical boundaries. Bihari communities worldwide organize events to connect with their roots and celebrate their shared heritage. This can involve cultural programs, seminars, or simply gatherings to savour Bihari delicacies.
- A Day of Reflection: Bihar Diwas is not just about festivities. It's also a day for reflection on the state's progress and its future aspirations. Discussions, seminars, and exhibitions often focus on Bihar's development, achievements, and areas for improvement.
Overall, Bihar Diwas is a day filled with joy, cultural pride, and a sense of community for Biharis both within the state and across the globe.
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