In India, the New Year is celebrated under different names in various states, with unique traditions and customs. Each region has its own beliefs, rituals, and ways of celebrating. These festivals are usually observed according to the Chaitra Shukla Pratipada in the lunar calendar.
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1. Andhra Pradesh & Telangana - Ugadi
Name: Ugadi
How is it Celebrated?
People take a ritual bath and wear new clothes on this day.
Houses are decorated with mango leaf torans and rangoli.
Devotees listen to the Panchanga Shravanam (astrological predictions for the new year).
Ugadi Pachadi is consumed as an important tradition.
It contains six different tastes, symbolizing the various experiences of life:
Sweet (Jaggery) - Happiness
Bitter (Neem) - Hardships
Salty - Balance
Spicy (Chilli) - Courage
Sour (Tamarind) - Surprises
Astringent (Mustard) - Sorrow
Families come together for prayers, bhajans, and cultural celebrations.
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2. Karnataka - Yugadi
Name: Yugadi
How is it Celebrated?
Kannadigas observe the tradition of "Bevu-Bella":
Bevu (Neem) - Symbolizes hardships
Bella (Jaggery) - Represents sweetness of life
Listening to the Panchanga (astrological forecast) and offering prayers are key customs.
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3. Maharashtra - Gudi Padwa
Name: Gudi Padwa
How is it Celebrated?
A Gudi (flag-like structure) is hoisted outside homes.
It is decorated with a bright yellow cloth, mango leaves, and neem leaves.
People perform special prayers and prepare festive delicacies.
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4. Punjab - Baisakhi
Name: Baisakhi
How is it Celebrated?
It marks the harvest festival and the Sikh New Year.
Special Ardas (prayers) are held in Gurdwaras.
People celebrate with Bhangra and Gidda (traditional dances).
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5. Assam - Bohag Bihu
Name: Bohag Bihu
How is it Celebrated?
It signifies the agricultural new year in Assam.
Traditional dance and folk songs are performed.
Homes are cleaned, and special food is prepared.
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6. West Bengal - Poila Baisakh
Name: Poila Baisakh
How is it Celebrated?
Bengalis celebrate their New Year with grand festivities.
Traders begin a "Hal Khata" (new business account book).
Special prayers and festive meals are prepared.
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7. Tamil Nadu - Puthandu
Name: Puthandu
How is it Celebrated?
The day starts with the "Kanni" ritual, where auspicious items are viewed first.
People visit temples and prepare traditional dishes.
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8. Kashmir - Navreh
Name: Navreh
How is it Celebrated?
People prepare a ritual plate with rice, gold/silver coins, fruits, and sacred texts.
Morning prayers and family gatherings mark the day.
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9. Manipur - Sajibu Nongma Panba
Name: Sajibu Nongma Panba
How is it Celebrated?
Manipuri people perform special prayers.
Traditional feasts and cultural programs take place.
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Conclusion
In different states of India, New Year is celebrated under various names with unique traditions.
Whether it is Ugadi, Yugadi, Gudi Padwa, Baisakhi, Bihu, Poila Baisakh, Puthandu, or Navreh—each festival reflects India’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.
May this New Year bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to all!
Happy Ugadi!
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