Gudi Padwa, also known as Samvatsar Padvo, marks the beginning of the traditional new year for Maharashtrians and Konkanis. It signifies the start of a new Samvatsara, a 60-year cycle in the Hindu lunar calendar, with each year having a unique name. This year it will be celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra and among Konkani communities. It coincides with Ugadi, which is observed in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Both festivals fall on the same day and share similar cultural and religious significance.
| Event | Date and Time |
| Marathi Shaka Samvata | 1947 |
| Gudi Padwa | Sunday, March 30, 2025 |
| Pratipada Tithi Begins | 04:27 PM on Mar 29, 2025 |
| Pratipada Tithi Ends | 12:49 PM on Mar 30, 2025 |
Gudi Padwa follows the Luni-Solar calendar, which considers both the Moon and the Sun’s positions to determine months and days. In contrast, the Solar calendar, which is followed in some regions of India, considers only the Sun’s position. Due to these differences, Hindu New Year is celebrated twice a year under different names. The Solar-based New Year is observed as Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Bihu in Assam, Vaisakhi in Punjab, Pana Sankranti in Odisha, and Naba Barsha in West Bengal.
Rituals and Traditions
The day of Gudi Padwa begins with an oil bath, a significant ritual prescribed in Hindu scriptures. Devotees also consume neem leaves, which are believed to purify the body and strengthen immunity. Families prepare festive meals and decorate their homes with vibrant rangoli designs.
A key tradition of Gudi Padwa is hoisting the 'Gudi,' a decorated flag with a bright cloth, neem leaves, mango leaves, and a garlanded sugar crystal. The Gudi is topped with an inverted silver or copper pot and placed at the entrance of homes. It symbolizes victory and prosperity, marking the triumph of good over evil.
Regional Observances
While Gudi Padwa is mainly celebrated in Maharashtra, it holds special significance across India. North Indians do not traditionally observe Gudi Padwa but begin the nine-day Chaitra Navratri puja on the same day. As part of their rituals, they also consume neem mixed with mishri (sugar crystals) on the first day of Navratri.
Gudi Padwa is not just a festival but a celebration of new beginnings, prosperity, and the rich cultural heritage of India. It brings families together and marks the onset of a new year filled with hope and positivity.
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