How the Names of the 12 Bengali Months Originated

The names of the twelve Bengali months did not appear randomly. They came from ancient Indian astronomy and Sanskrit language traditions. In early times, people observed the movement of the Sun, Moon, and stars to measure seasons, agriculture, and time. Many month names were taken from the names of Nakshatras (lunar mansions or star groups) that were prominent during those periods. Later, these names became part of the Bengali calendar (Bangabda). 

 

Historical Background

The Bengali calendar developed from older Indian solar calendars. Over time, Bengal adapted it for local use, especially for farming, tax collection, festivals, and seasonal life. During the Mughal period, the calendar was further organized for administrative purposes, but the month names remained rooted in older Sanskrit traditions. 

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Origin of Each Bengali Month Name

1. Boishakh (বৈশাখ)

The name Boishakh comes from the Sanskrit word Vishakha, which is the name of a Nakshatra (star group). This star was associated with the time when the Sun entered that seasonal period. It became the first month of the Bengali year.

2. Joishtho (জ্যৈষ্ঠ)

Joishtho comes from Jyeshtha, another Nakshatra. In Sanskrit, Jyeshtha also means “eldest” or “greatest.” It marks one of the hottest times of the year. 

3. Asharh (আষাঢ়)

The name Asharh comes from Ashadha / Uttarashadha, names of ancient star groups. This month usually begins the rainy season in Bengal. 

4. Srabon (শ্রাবণ)

Srabon comes from Shravana, a famous Nakshatra. This month is deeply connected with monsoon rain and greenery. 

5. Bhadro (ভাদ্র)

The name Bhadro comes from Bhadrapada. The word Bhadra means noble, auspicious, or blessed. 

6. Ashwin (আশ্বিন)

Ashwin comes from Ashvini, the first Nakshatra in Vedic astrology. It is linked with the divine twin healers called the Ashvins. 

7. Kartik (কার্তিক)

Kartik comes from Kartika, associated with the star cluster Krittika (Pleiades). It is also linked culturally with Kartikeya, a Hindu deity. 

8. Ogrohayon / Agrahayan (অগ্রহায়ণ)

This name comes from Agrahayana, meaning “the beginning of the year” in older traditions. In ancient times, this month was once considered the first month in some Indian calendars. 

9. Poush (পৌষ)

Poush comes from Pausha, linked to the Nakshatra Pushya. It is a winter harvest month and important in rural Bengal. 

10. Magh (মাঘ)

Magh comes from Magha, another Nakshatra. It is one of the coldest months of the Bengali year. 

11. Falgun (ফাল্গুন)

Falgun comes from Phalguna, related to the stars Phalguni. It is known as the season of spring, flowers, and color. 

12. Choitro (চৈত্র)

Choitro comes from Chaitra, which is linked to the star Chitra. It is the last month of the Bengali year. 

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Why These Names Were Important

These names were not only for counting days. They helped people:

• understand seasons

• plan farming

• celebrate festivals

• collect taxes

• organize social life

• connect time with nature and the sky

That is why Bengali month names still carry both scientific and cultural history.

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Conclusion

The 12 Bengali month names came mainly from Sanskrit star names (Nakshatras) and ancient astronomical systems. They were later adopted into the Bengali calendar and became a permanent part of Bengali identity, language, and culture.