ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

South and Southeast Asian New Year

South and Southeast Asian New Year is a celebration that marks the beginning of a new year according to traditional calendars in Southeast Asia and South Asia. Many countries in this region celebrate New Year at different times, based on their respective calendars. The celebration is often accompanied by various cultural festivities, lights, and colors, that are special to each region and country.

For example, the South Asian New Year usually falls in April and is celebrated in countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. In these countries, the New Year is associated with the Sun's entry into Aries, according to their traditional calendar. People celebrate the New Year by performing religious rituals, cleaning and decorating homes, preparing special dishes, wearing new clothes, and attending community fairs and festivals.

Similarly, the Southeast Asian New Year is typically celebrated over three days, during mid-April, and is called "Songkran". It is celebrated in countries like Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Songkran marks the celebration of the traditional New Year-based calendar, which is aligned with the movement of the Sun, Moon, and stars. People celebrate by throwing water on each other, symbolizing purification and the washing away of negativity.

In summary, South and Southeast Asian New Year is a festive occasion when people in these regions celebrate the beginning of a new year according to their traditional calendars. This celebration is marked by various cultural practices and festivities that are unique to each country and community.