Why is New Year celebrated on January 1?

New Delhi: As the final days of 2023 draw to a close, the world eagerly anticipates the arrival of 2024, bidding adieu to the past year and ushering in a New Year filled with hope and prosperity. Across the globe, January 1 is celebrated as the New Year, marked by joyous gatherings, elaborate feasts, vibrant parties, and the exchange of gifts. The commencement of a New Year signifies not only happiness but also renewed energy and aspirations for a brighter future. Let us dive into the history, significance, traditions, and the essence of why January 1 is universally celebrated as the beginning of a new chapter.

Evolution of January 1

The recognition of January 1 as the inaugural day of the year dates back to 45 BCE. In the Roman calendar, which originally commenced in March with a span of 355 days, Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator, instigated a reform. He designated January 1 as the starting point of the year, a decision influenced by the honouring of Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, with his dual faces that could peer into both the past and the future.

Nevertheless, widespread acceptance across Europe took time and only materialized in the mid-16th century CE. The advent of Christianity led to the perception of January 1 as a pagan celebration, with December 25, the purported birthdate of Jesus, being deemed more acceptable. The endorsement of January 1 as the official beginning of the new year gained traction after Pope Gregory's reform of the Julian calendar.

Babylon's influence on New Year's origins

The roots of New Year celebrations extend back to ancient Babylon, around 4,000 years ago in 2,000 BC. Babylonians marked the new year with an 11-day festival called Akitu, featuring distinct rites each day. Aligned with the first new moon after the vernal equinox, typically in late March, this celebration laid the foundation for the global tradition of welcoming the New Year.

New Year's eve, positive resolutions

New Year festivities commence on December 31, commonly known as New Year's Eve, and extend into the early hours of January 1. Revellers partake in meals and snacks believed to bring good fortune. Traditions such as watching fireworks and singing songs unite people worldwide. The advent of a new year serves as an opportune moment for positive transformations, prompting individuals to jot down their resolutions for the upcoming year.

As the world unites in bidding farewell to 2023 and heralding the dawn of 2024, the global celebration encapsulates the spirit of embracing fresh beginnings, optimism, and the collective journey towards a promising future.