SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 17

Correct Answer

Kashmiri Pandits

Explanation

Navreh is the Kashmiri New Year, primarily celebrated by the Kashmiri Pandit community. The term "Navreh" is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Nav-Varsha', meaning New Year. It is observed on the first day (Pratipada) of the bright half of the lunar month of Chaitra, which typically falls in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar. On this day, Kashmiri Pandits perform a special ritual involving a plate filled with rice, flowers, a mirror, currency, and other auspicious items, which is prepared the night before and viewed early in the morning as the first sight of the New Year to ensure prosperity and good fortune.

Key Points

Navreh marks the beginning of the Kashmiri lunar calendar, known as the Saptarshi Samvat. It is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the Kashmiri Pandit community and is considered a day of spiritual renewal. The festival emphasizes gratitude and the hope for a fresh start, often accompanied by community gatherings, traditional rituals, and the preparation of specific festive foods. It is a symbol of the enduring cultural identity and heritage of the Kashmiri Pandits.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: What does the ritual of viewing the 'Thal' (plate) on Navreh signify?

Answer: The ritual of viewing the 'Thal' early in the morning is considered an auspicious act that invites good luck, prosperity, and peace for the upcoming year.

Question: How does the Kashmiri calendar differ from the Gregorian calendar regarding the New Year?

Answer: The Kashmiri calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning the date of Navreh changes every year in the Gregorian calendar, whereas the Gregorian New Year is fixed on January 1st based on the solar cycle.