Happy Gudi Padwa - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Gudi Padwa is a Hindu festival celebrated by people in the Indian state of Maharashtra and some parts of Southern India. It marks the beginning of the new year according to the Hindu calendar.
- 2. The festival is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month, which usually falls in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar.
- 3. The term "Gudi Padwa" is derived from two words - "Gudi" which means flag or banner, and "Padwa" which means the first day of the new year. So, Gudi Padwa literally means the flag of the new year.
- 4. On this day, people hoist a Gudi flag outside their homes, which is made by hoisting a bright cloth on a bamboo stick along with flowers, neem leaves, and a copper or silver vessel.
- 5. The Gudi flag symbolizes victory and is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity and good luck to the household.
- 6. People also decorate their homes with rangoli, prepare traditional dishes like puran poli, shrikhand, and poori bhaji, and exchange gifts with friends and family.
- 7. Gudi Padwa is considered an auspicious day for starting new ventures, buying new assets, or making important decisions.
- 8. In Maharashtra, the festival is also associated with the legendary king Shalivahana, who is believed to have defeated the Sakas and started the Shalivahana calendar.
- 9. Gudi Padwa is not just celebrated in Maharashtra but also in other states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, where it is known as Ugadi.
- 10. The festival is a time for joy, renewal, and hope for a prosperous year ahead, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor by people of all ages.