New Delhi: Gudi Padwa, also called Samvatsar Padvo, is a major event in Maharashtra that is celebrated with considerable pomp and ceremony.
The event is held on the first day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which occurs between March and April in the Gregorian calendar. Gudi Padwa will be commemorated on March 22 this year. Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh celebrate Gudi Padwa and Ugadi on the same days.
Gudi Padwa is derived from two words: ‘gudi,’ which denotes a flag or symbol of Lord Brahma, and ‘padwa,’ which denotes the initial day of the moon’s phase.
History:
On the day of Gudi Padwa, Lord Brahma, according to Hindu mythology, created everything in existence. It is also stated that Brahma established days, weeks, months, and years on this day. According to another version, King Shalivahana’s victory is commemorated on the day his people flew the Gudi or flag when he arrived in Paithan.
Significance:
On Gudi Padwa, people get up early in the morning, tidy their homes, and take a bath before praying. Rangolis and Gudi are often used to decorate dwellings. To bring luck and good fortune, the Gudi is fashioned of a colorful silk scarf attached to a bamboo stick, flowers, mango and neem leaves, and Saakhar gaathi (sugar candy garland). To represent triumph, an overturned kalash on a bamboo stick is raised outside the house after the puja. It is thought to be a triumph emblem that wards off evil and invites wealth.
Date and Time:
Drik Panchang predicts that the Pratipada Tithi will commence at 10.52 p.m. on March 21 and terminate at 8.20 p.m. on March 22.
