A day of sharing jokes, playing pranks, and laughing openly, April Fools’ Day, although an unofficial holiday, is widely popular around the world. You may not get time off from work or school on this day, but this is the perfect opportunity to lighten up the atmosphere with jokes and laughter and even make peace with the people you are with. Generally not good. Even in India, April Fool’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm due to its widespread recognition in popular culture, media and the Internet. (See Photos: Funny April Fool’s Day Pranks for Friends and Family)
Most of us probably have those childhood memories when friends used to keep plastic jelly fish or cockroaches near the pillow to play prank on 1st April and seeing your scared face, they used to shout – ‘Made April Fool, it was great fun’ . No wonder, this day is eagerly awaited by pranksters who look for new ideas to surprise their loved ones and then enjoy their reaction.
Why do we celebrate April Fool’s Day?
April Fools’ Day has been celebrated on April 1 for centuries, and although there are many stories associated with it, the most popular ones date back to 16th century France. In 1582, France switched to the Gregorian calendar from the Julian calendar decided by the Council of Trent in 1563. Before this change, the New Year was celebrated around the time of the spring equinox which fell between late March and April. After the new calendar, the new year was started in January.
Like all new things, this change took some time to implement as many people either refused to accept the new date or remained unaware of the change. Those who continued to celebrate the New Year on April 1 during the last week of March or the spring equinox became the butt of jokes and hoaxes by those who had begun following the new calendar. He was called an April Fool and made fun of.
Another reference indicating the origin of this day is found in a poem by the Flemish poet Eduard de Dene in 1561, referring to a nobleman who sent his servant on a foolish errand on April 1.
The origins of April Fools’ Day can also be traced to ancient Roman festivals such as Hilaria, which was celebrated in late March, or Holi in India, which is celebrated around the same time. During Hilaria, people dress up and make fun of each other, much like the modern tradition of pranking, while Holi is all about light-hearted conversation, pranks and fun with colors.
Importance of April Fool’s Day
A day dedicated to jokes, pranks and laughter, April Fools’ Day provides a much-needed break from the monotony of regular life and an opportunity to have some fun with friends and loved ones. In the digital age, April Fools’ Day has also taken on a new significance as online platforms and social media networks are playing a central role in spreading jokes and rumours.
While playing harmless pranks and having fun with others on this day, one must realize that not everyone likes to be the butt of jokes. So, if you are planning to prank your boss on this day by sending him a resignation mail, do it at your own risk, as it may be accepted.
