In many parts of the country it falls on April 14.

In some states like Punjab it coincides with the harvest, and, so, combines the solemnity of Hindu festivals with the earthy rowdiness of the wheat farm.

It is known by various names – Vishu in Kerala state, Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra and Baisakhi in Punjab.

Scholars are still debating when and how it spread out of India – some even dispute it did – but it seems to have spread to neighboring countries, Southeast Asia, and as far away as Taiwan.

In Thailand it is called Songkran and is by far the country’s largest festival.

The country virtually closes down for a week as people douse each other with buckets of water in the streets.

It is called Chaul Chnam in Cambodia, Bun Pi Mai in Laos, and Thingyan in Myanmar.

It is even celebrated in China’s Yunnan province.

The Indians in Vietnam celebrate many of the functions from back home including New Year.

This year, they plan to have a New Year bash in HCMC today.

Called UTSAV, it will be held at the Sedona Suites, 65 Le Loi Boulevard, District 1.

It will be a typical Indian celebration with families having a day out, cultural events, and sumptuous Indian food.

■ Tickets will cost VND200,000 for adults and VND100,000 for children and include unlimited free food and drinks.

■ To buy, contact the Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam, HCMC, at (08) 823 8132 or fax them at (08) 823 8530.

■ E-mail: incham@hcm.vnn.vn