Where is the Lunar New Year celebrated in India?

Lunar New Year is not a single holiday celebrated in all of India, but rather several different holidays celebrated in different regions of India according to their lunisolar calendars. Some of the major celebrations include:

Ugadi: Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka on the first day of the Chaitra month, which usually falls in March or April.
Gudi Padwa: Celebrated in Maharashtra on the first day of the Chaitra month.
Vaisakhi: Celebrated in Punjab on the first day of the Baisakh month, which usually falls in April or May.
Puthandu: Celebrated in Tamil Nadu on the first day of the Chithirai month, which usually falls in March or April.
Vishu: Celebrated in Kerala on the first day of the Medam month, which usually falls in April or May.

Ugadi: Celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, Ugadi marks the beginning of the Chaitra month, usually falling in March or April. It signifies the start of the new year and is marked by elaborate rangoli decorations, special dishes like Ugadi Pachadi, and exchanging greetings with loved ones.

Gudi Padwa: Observed in Maharashtra on the first day of Chaitra, Gudi Padwa features colorful processions with decorated poles called “Gudis,” symbolizing victory. Families gather for feasts, wear new clothes, and pray for prosperity in the coming year.

Vaisakhi: Celebrated in Punjab on the first day of Baisakh, typically in April or May, Vaisakhi commemorates the foundation of the Sikh Khalsa community. It’s marked by vibrant parades, Bhangra dances, and sharing traditional dishes like Khichdi.

Puthandu: Celebrated in Tamil Nadu on the first day of Chithirai, usually in March or April, Puthandu ushers in the Tamil New Year. Homes are adorned with mango leaves, families prepare special dishes like Paal Payasam, and people exchange gifts and blessings.

Vishu: Observed in Kerala on the first day of Medam, typically in April or May, Vishu signifies the beginning of the Malayalam New Year. It’s a time for families to gather for elaborate feasts, wear new clothes, and participate in auspicious rituals like “Kanji Kanthal.”

These are just a few examples, and there are many other regional variations like Bohag Bihu in Assam, Pohela Boishakh in West Bengal, and Pana Sankranti in Odisha, each with its unique customs and significance.

It’s important to remember that while Lunar New Year isn’t a national holiday in India, it holds immense cultural importance for various communities, reflecting the country’s rich diversity and vibrant traditions.