Jude Sheetal, also known as Pahila or Pohela Boishakh, is also the birthday of Raja Shailesh, the king of the Himalayan region of Mithila. The day is celebrated as the Maithili New Year and follows the Nirayanam vernal equinox. April 14 marks the first day of the traditional Tirhuta Panchang and the holy new year for Maithili people.