We see Unity in Diversity everywhere- it is same with the Globe. While everyone celebrates New Year there lies a difference in the way they celebrate- more like rituals and traditions and it is these traditions that makes the entire difference and brings joy and cheerfulness among the participants.
Ecuador: Burning the bad
Dolls, men in drag and fire are a part of traditions in celebrating the new year in Ecuador.The tradition is that the locals burn effigies, and set fire on the old year.
Latin America: Lucky underwear
In some cultures, the best underwear is saved for the last day of the year. Areas of Spain and Latin America believe in treating themselves to new underwear to ring in another year. Red- if looking for love while those hoping for a rich year will choose green.
Romania: Dancing the evil spirits away
Romanians donn bear costumes to keep evil spirits at bay. This rural tradition requires costumed participants to dance from house to house before the new year rings in.
In another unusual ritual, some Romanian farmers try to hear their animals communicate. If the animal whispers, it indicates a prosperous new year .
South Africa and Italy: Chucking furniture out the window
“Out with the old” is what these people believe in. Daring partygoers will throw old home items through the windows as a way to reject the old as it’s believed that the negativity goes out the window and good news is expected for the next year.
Spain, Philippines and Latin America: Eating of 12 grapes:
This tradition has its origins in Spain, where revelers eat 12 grapes in the minute before midnight. The custom has been adopted in Latin American countries and in the Philippines. The fruity feast is expected to bring a better year with good health and rid away evil spirits.
Latin America: Lugging an empty suitcase
Residents of countries like Mexico and Colombia, start the new year by walking around their home with luggage.
The ritual is performed to bring about a year full of travels. – If you are a wanderlust, then do try this ritual!
Russia: Drinking wishes
Russians, believing New Year’s wishes will come true, write down a desire at the strike of midnight. They then burn the paper and sprinkle the ashes into a glass of champagne, for a smoky New Year’s drink.
Brazil: Jumping over seven waves
Brazilians take to the ocean when the clock hits 12. Some believe the act of jumping over seven waves — one for each day of the week honors the Goddess of the Sea, Yemanja.
Participants looking to get in her good graces will also leave offerings like jewelry in the water.
Scotland: Swinging fireballs.
It’s hard to rival Hogmanay — the Scottish celebration of the new year dates back to the Viking times, and has several unique customs.
However, the most striking is likely the blazing balls of fire that are swung around heads and then tossed into a nearby harbor.
The sea of fire indicates a purifying force for the new year and to start the new year afresh.
Chile: Spend the day with the dead
Those lost in previous years are reunited with their loved ones on New Year’s Day when family members spend the night in the graveyard after a late-night mass, locals greet the new year surrounded by candles, music and tombstones.
By: Archa Dave
