Some Indian communities celebrate their New Year on April 13 and 14 this year. After Punjabis celebrated Baisakhi on April 13, Bengalis, Assamese, Malayalis and Tamils rejoiced on the occasion of Pohela Boishakh, Bohag Bihu, Vishu and Puthandu on Thursday.
The above-mentioned festivals are celebrated on the first day of the communities' respective calendars and it also marks the beginning of the harvest season in India. Bengalis greet people saying "Shubho Nobo borsho," Tamils greet people saying "Puthandu Vazhthukal," Assamese say "Bohag Bihu'r Ulog Jonalu" and Malayalis greet saying "Vishu Ashamsakal."
Wearing new clothes and offering prayers are common practices on New Year. Bengalis consider it as an auspicious time for marriages or to start new businesses. Tamilians usually plan a big feast and decorate their homes on the day.
For Assamese, Bohag Bihu is also known as Rongali Bihu and the occasion witnesses the popular Bihu dance and Bihugeets. And Malayalis give money to youngsters, which is known as "Vishu Kaineettam," and they also visit prominent temples like the Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple or the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple.
Meanwhile, several celebrities have wished fans on social media. Take a look at the tweets here:
