Andhra Pradesh government has asked for a ban on upcoming New Year festivities on January 1 in all the temples across the state.There are currently around 15,000 major temples in the state. In a circular issued by the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department through the Hindu Dharma Parirakshana Trust (HDPT), it has suggested the Hindu temples to not celebrate New Year on January 1 and spend lavishly for the same. Dr C Raghavacharyulu, the Secretary of HDPT, said: "India got independence 70 years ago. But we have been following the English calendar that was made a habit during the British rule. Wishing on 1st January and celebrating it as a festival is not Indian Vedic Tradition." Even temples have been asked not to wish devotees Happy New Year on New Year's eve. 

Andhra Pradesh government has asked for a ban on upcoming New Year festivities on January 1 in all the temples across the state.There are currently around 15,000 major temples in the state. In a circular issued by the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department through the Hindu Dharma Parirakshana Trust (HDPT), it has suggested the Hindu temples to not celebrate New Year on January 1 and spend lavishly for the same. Dr C Raghavacharyulu, the Secretary of HDPT, said: "India got independence 70 years ago. But we have been following the English calendar that was made a habit during the British rule. Wishing on 1st January and celebrating it as a festival is not Indian Vedic Tradition." Even temples have been asked not to wish devotees Happy New Year on New Year's eve.