Nobel Prize winning Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore has enriched humanity and made Bengalis around the world proud, said US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Monday, wishing the community "Shubho Nobo Borsho".

"This year marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of the great poet Rabindranath Tagore, whose writing has enriched our common humanity and brought pride to Bengali people around the world," Clinton said in her New Year message to the community.

"On behalf of US President Barack Obama and the American people, I congratulate all Bengalis as you celebrate Pohela Boishakh and welcome a new year of promise and possibility," she said.

This holiday, which unites people of common heritage across religious and national lines, is an opportunity to honour Bengali culture with music, drama and traditional foods, Clinton said.

"Let us take this moment to reflect on our common aspirations for a more peaceful and prosperous future for our children and grandchildren, and redouble our efforts around the world to promote mutual understanding and respect."

"I send my warmest greetings to all those celebrating on this special day. Shubho Nobo Borsho!"