Well, it’s the advent of a brand new
year, a time when we let go off the past, renew our present, and start afresh
for a better future. We all make our plans to have a great start to the year in
our own special ways. But I find some things that are almost like a ritual for
every New Year. Here’s my take on the inevitable aspects of an Indian New Year.
You're welcome to help me expand my list!
1. New Year Resolutions. This is probably the first thing
people ask you after they wish you, and it becomes a necessity to find one,
because otherwise, you’re perceived as a rebel! “Start going to a gym”, “Keeping
my room clean”, ”Controlling my temper”, “Help mom and dad by being responsible”..
We've tried every variation of them every year, that beyond a point, we have
exhausted all possibilities!
2. Texting and social networks. No New Year or festival passes
without a chain of forwarded text messages, especially nowadays, when all of us
stay connected via whatsapp or facebook. Beautifully worded (but sometimes with
poor grammar!) and aesthetically decorated with cute shapes and smileys, I
sometimes wonder who comes up with these messages!
3. Shopping spree. New Year is the time when most
Indian households undergo a “makeover”! We Indians, with an inherent obsession
for discounts and sales, find the end of the year the best possible time to
engage in shopping. Guess we take the policy of “starting afresh” a little too
literally! :P
4. God bless us. “Indha varsham ellam nanna nadakkanum nu perumal a vendiko!” An oft
heard advice from the elders in the family! Every New Year witnesses temples,
churches and mosques transform into the likes of Tirupati, the Vatican and the
Mecca, as hundreds of people flock them. We can spot even the least theist of
people at a place of worship on the 1st of January. That, I’d say,
is the power of tradition!
5. Party hangouts. Tradition exists with an equally
strong and contrast influence of modernity. Restaurants and beaches are thronged
by swarms of youngsters, as midnight parties and hangouts with friends seem to
be the new way of celebration.
6. Food. How can an Indian celebration be
complete if it doesn’t involve food!? A sumptuous elaborate meal, with an
overdose of sweets, followed by a leisurely nap, has become an inevitable part
of our New Year. Relax for this one day, for the routine is about to begin!
7. TV. This is undeniably the factor
that takes up most part of every January 1st. We eagerly and
expectantly wait for our favourite movies to be screened as the announcer goes
in his usual “Indiya tholaikaatchigalil
mudhal murayaaga...” Why is this more special than the programmes telecast
for other festivals? We’ve crooned songs and rooted for movies all through the
year, but to have them all compiled as the best songs or scenes of the year is
an excitement in its own sense.
The
New Year gives us the reassurance that we haven't reached a dead end, the grit
to move on, the hope of a new beginning and the excitement about what’s in
store for us. We may be clichéd, dramatic, conservative or rational in
welcoming it, but nevertheless, it is celebration time! :)
Wishing
the world a wonderful, peaceful and fruitful 2014! :)
