9 Things You Can Relate To If You Were Born In A Bengali Household
niharika nayakBA (Media & Communication) Experience: 4 yearsNiharika has a passion for all things art, music, and travel and has over 4 years of experience in writing for social media. During her spare time, she likes experimenting in the kitchen, playing vide... more
If you grew up in a Bengali household then you know that there are certain things that are exclusive to Bong culture. West Bengal is known for its beauty, diversity, “pujos” and its vibrant, intelligent community of Bengali folk. Besides the common stereotypes of “Jol Khaabo” and other funny but delightful Bengali phrases, the community is also known for being very attached to their rich cuisine. No matter which part of the country you decide to visit, you will find a Bengali somewhere or the other. So here are a few things about Bengali folk that make them so unique and cultural in our country:
1. Bata Shoes Are Number 1
Bata first hit our shores in 1932 in the small township of Konnagar which is just opposite to Kolkata by the Hooghly river. Although the company isn’t Indian in its origin, it has gone on to earn a reputation as one of the highest-selling shoe brands in India. If you truly want to feel like a Bong, go stop by a Bata showroom right before Durgotsava. You’re guaranteed to hear a middle-aged Bengali auntie swear at you for getting in her way.
2. Durga Puja In THE Event Of The Year
If there is one festival that every Bengali appreciates and respects, it’s Durga Puja. This is because it is one of the most special times of the year and Bengali parents love bestowing their children with tons of presents during this time. Not only will Bengali parents pamper their kids with toys and treats, but they will also make them their favorite food and allow them a break from their studies. And when the entire family is along for the ride, the event turns into quite a feast.
3. Boroline Is The Cure-All
Got a burn on your hand? A shaving nick? A cut? Painfully chapped lips? Well, fret not! Boroline is here to cure all your woes. You cannot complete a medicine cabinet without adding a tube of Boroline to it. This medicine has a special place in most Bengali households and is one of the most soothing treatments out there. If you think that Boroline is too hyped, just apply it on your chapped lips one night and see for yourself.
4. Your “Daak Naam” Is Damn Embarrassing
Hey, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about! Every Indian household has an embarrassing name for their children and won’t be afraid to tell the whole world about it. But every Bengali knows that an embarrassing “daak naam” can be very awkward to deal with. Most Bengali kids are called by their nicknames as a form of endearment by their family, close ones, and relatives. Whether your “daak naam” is “Mishu”, “Shona” or “Babai”, it’s important to note that almost every Bengali kid is embarrassed about their “daak naam”.
5. “Maach Bhaat” Over Any Other Food
Just like every Goan would sell their soul for a plate of good fish curry rice, so would a Bengali person. Of course, the methods in which the communities prepare their fish are extremely different. Fish curry and rice are every Bengali’s go-to food and they cannot survive without indulging in it. The obsession for eating fish triples when the unique and delicious Hilsa fish hits the markets during the months of June to September.
6. Reading Books Is Important
If there is one thing Bengali parents will always encourage, it’s reading books. They start the kids out young by encouraging them to read books, poems, and novels from a very young age. If you visit a Bengali family, you know that their bookshelves are well-stocked and they are proud of it.
7. You Can’t Leave The Monkey Cap At Home During Winters
Although the monkey cap is one ugly looking accessory choice, we’re often forced to wear it during cold Kolkata weather. Bengali parents seem to think that a monkey cap can protect them from everything—a cold, fever, and even an apocalypse. We just want to know the genius who came up with this weird design and why it resembles a monkey.
8. Your Mom Calls You “Bandorer Bachcha” When She’s Mad
According to your Bengali mother, you aren’t really a human or a “manush”. You’re actually the child of a monkey. The funny thing is that she is technically insulting herself when she calls you a monkey’s child because it would imply that she is also a monkey. Don’t bring that up during an argument though. Other common nicknames Bong moms like to throw around are, “goru, hagoler bachcha and opodharto” which mean cow, goat’s kid, and stupid respectively.
9. Bengali Women Are In A League Of Their Own
There is no denying that Bengali women are extremely beautiful and well-cultured. With beauties like Rani Mukherjee, Bipasha Basu and so many more gracing our big screens, it’s no wonder that Bengali women have earned a reputation for being “exotic”. Of course, this does not mean that a Bengali woman would let you walk all over her. Bengali women know their worth and aren’t afraid to ask to be treated equally.
Everyone knows that having a Bengali friend can be extremely enriching to their life. So if you already have Bengali friends, go give them a hug so they remember to give you loads of fish at the next festival. After everything is said and done, we all know that Bengali folk are a very important part of our culture and heritage. Do you agree with our list? Tell us all your thoughts in the comment section below.
