April fool Manaya… It’s the day to share jokes, pull pranks, and laugh generously. April Fools' Day, though an unofficial holiday, is widely popular across the world. 

To get an off from work or school on this day, it's the perfect opportunity to make the atmosphere light-hearted with jokes and hoaxes and even make peace with people you normally don't get along well with. 

In India including Jharkhand too, April Fools' Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm thanks to its widespread recognition in popular culture, media, and the internet. 

April Fools' Day has been celebrated on April 1 for centuries and while there are many stories associated with it the most popular ones date to 16th-century France. 

In 1582, France switched to the Gregorian calendar from the Julian calendar as decided by the Council of Trent in 1563. Before this change, New Year was celebrated around the time of the spring equinox which used to fall between the end of March to April. 

Following the new calendar moved the start of the new year to January. Another reference that hinted at the origin of the day is found in a 1561 poem by Flemish poet Eduard de Dene of a nobleman who sent his servant on foolish errands on April 1. 

The origins of April Fools' Day can also be traced back to ancient Roman festivals such as Hilaria, which was celebrated at the end of March, or Holi in India, which is celebrated around the same time. 

During Hilaria, people would dress up in disguises and mock each other, much like the modern-day tradition of playing pranks, while Holi is all about light-hearted conversations, jokes, and fun with colours. 

In the digital age, April Fools' Day has also taken on a new significance with online platforms and social media networks playing a central role in spreading jokes and hoaxes.

 

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