While much of the Western world observes the new year on January 1, the concept assumes a more complex form in India. Our states have diverse historical and cultural narratives and thus have their own new year days according to the regional solar and lunar calendars. Add to this a dash of mythology and these annual celebrations have unique stories to tell.
Ugadi, observed in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, is believed to be the day that Brahma initiated the creation of the universe. Shiva had cursed Brahma, telling him that he would never be worshipped across the three realms, so Ugadi is a rare festival dedicated to Brahma. Other versions mark this day as the monumental event when Krishna renounced his physical body, signalling the end of Dwapar Yuga and the onset of Kali Yuga.
Maharashtra's Gudi Padwa also celebrates the creation of time by Brahma. Additionally, it is believed to be the day when Rama was crowned in Ayodhya after returning from his 14-year-long exile.
Vishu, in Kerala, observes the killing of Narakasura by Krishna. A demon born to Mother Earth, the asura had wreaked havoc upon the universe. Towards the end, he had not only conquered heaven, but also imprisoned 16,000 women as his concubines. With the help of Satyabhama, Krishna slayed Narakasura and embraced those women as his wives.
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