Why Gudi Padwa is celebrated

Gudi Padwa or ‘Samvatsara Padvo’ is the first day of the Marathi New Year. This day gets its name from two words: "Gudi," which means a Hindu Lord Brahma flag or emblem, and "Padwa," which means the first day of the moon's phase. The festival is also the beginning of harvest season. This is celebrated with great excitement and enthusiasm in different regions of Maharashtra. The Konkani and Marathi Hindu communities celebrate Gudi Padwa.

The year 2023 Gudi Padwa is special because, The first day of the nine-day Chaitra Navratri festival also lies on the Gudi Padwa. and according to the lunisolar Calendar, spring also marks the beginning of the New Year.

History & Importance

On the day of Gudi Padwa, it is believed that in Hindu mythology, the Lord Brahma established days, weeks, months, and years and created the universe. Some reckon it a day when Ruler Shalivahana celebrated his triumph and individuals lifted the flag on his return to Paithan. Gudi is generally regarded as a sign of good triumphing over evil. Kalash, a symbol of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana, completes the Gudi Padwa's celebration arrangement.

Celebration

On the day of the Gudi Padwa, Marathas decorate a bamboo stick (around 5 feet long) by wrapping a piece of fresh cloth and covering it with sugar candy, neem leaves and garland. The stick is then positioned in a bronze or silver pot.

On this day, people wake up early and put beautiful Gudi and rangoli designs on their homes. Marathis celebrate their new year by worshiping Gudi and having Shrikhand for Puran Poli as grace with loved ones.