Baisakhi: North Indian states, mainly Punjab | In the vibrant states of North India, particularly Punjab, the festival of Baisakhi marks the New Year. Celebrated on April 13 or 14, Baisakhi is not only a time for joyous festivities but also holds immense religious significance for the Sikh community. (Image: Shutterstock)
Losoong: Sikkim | Nestled in the northeastern part of India, the state of Sikkim welcomes the New Year with Losoong. Celebrated in December, Losoong is a vibrant festival showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region, with traditional dances, music, and elaborate feasts. (Image: Shutterstock)
Navreh: Jammu and Kashmir | In the picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, Navreh is celebrated as the Kashmiri New Year. Typically observed in March or April, Navreh is marked by rituals, prayers, and the exchange of special dishes among family members. (Image: Shutterstock)
Bohag Bihu: Assam | Assam, in the northeastern part of the country, ushers in the New Year with the Bohag Bihu festival in April. This harvest festival is characterised by traditional Bihu dances, feasts, and the lighting of bonfires, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. (Image: Shutterstock)
Sajibu Cheiraoba: Manipur | The state of Manipur in the northeastern part of India celebrates Sajibu Cheiraoba as the New Year. Falling in March or April, this festival is marked by traditional rituals, folk dances, and a sense of community bonding. (Image: Shutterstock)
Pohela Boishakh: Bengal | Bengalis welcome the New Year with Pohela Boishakh, typically celebrated in April. The festival is a vibrant affair with colorful processions, traditional music, dance, and feasting, embodying the spirit of renewal and new beginnings. (Image: Shutterstock)
Bishuva Sankranti: Odisha | In the eastern state of Odisha, Bishuva Sankranti marks the New Year. Celebrated in mid-April, the festival involves various cultural activities, traditional rituals, and the exchange of special dishes among family and friends. (Image: Shutterstock)
Vishu: Kerala | The scenic state of Kerala welcomes the New Year with Vishu in April. The festival is celebrated with fervor, featuring the Vishu Kani, a special arrangement of auspicious items, and traditional cultural performances. (Image: Shutterstock)
Puthandu: Tamil Nadu | Tamil Nadu in the southern part of India observes Puthandu as the New Year, usually falling in April. The day is marked by traditional rituals, the preparation of special dishes, and the decoration of homes. (Image: Shutterstock)
Ugadi: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana | In the southern states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, Ugadi heralds the New Year. Celebrated in March or April, Ugadi is marked by the reading of the Panchangam (almanac), special dishes, and cultural events. (Image: Shutterstock)
Bestu Varas: Gujarat | Gujarat celebrates the New Year with Bestu Varas, which usually falls in October or November. The festival involves prayers, traditional dances, and the exchange of greetings and sweets among friends and family. (Image: Shutterstock)
Gudi Padwa: Maharashtra, Goa | In the western states of Maharashtra and Goa, Gudi Padwa is celebrated as the New Year. Falling in March or April, the festival is marked by the hoisting of Gudi (a special flag), traditional rituals, and cultural performances.(Image: Shutterstock)