India became independent from in the 1950’s.

one of the major compromises in the constitutional convention was between the small states and big states. the small states wanted each state to have the same number of representatives in congress. the big states wanted representation based on population.

it's a secular holiday. it is and was a custom developed to recognize the ending of a time and a wish for a good future. the kind of kiss you exchange, if you are single, is intended to predict what kind of year you will have in the coming year.

it is saying good bye to the last year with all its ups and downs, and hello to the new year, with all its hopes and dreams.