UGADI, GUDI PADWA 2024: DATE, PUJA VIDHI, SIGNIFICANCE

These festivals symbolize the perpetual cycle of renewal and promise of abundance. Learn enduring traditions and principles followed on Gudi Padwa & Ugadi across regions of India.

The term ‘Gudi’ signifies a flag or banner, whereas ‘Padwa’ refers to the first day of the month. Gudi Padwa symbolizes the harvest of Rabi crops and is believed to mark the day when Lord Brahma initiated the creation of the universe.

Ugadi is a significant festival observed in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, marking the commencement of the New Year or Nav Varsh according to the Hindu calendar. This year, the festival is slated to occur on April 9, coinciding with the Marathi festival of Gudi Padwa.

Gudi Padwa & Ugadi Mahurat

This year, Gudi Padwa and Ugadi falls on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Here are the auspicious times:

• The first day of the lunar month (Pratipada Tithi) starts at 11:50 pm on April 8, 2024.
• The first day of the lunar month (Pratipada Tithi) ends at 8:30 pm on April 9, 2024.

History of Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa, a festival rich in history and rituals, derives its name from two words: “Gudi,” representing the flag adorned with flowers, mango, and neem leaves, topped with an upturned silver or copper vessel, and “padwa” or “pratipada,” originating from the Sanskrit word for the first day of a lunar fortnight.

The celebration of Gudi Padwa involves vibrant floor decorations known as rangoli, the display of a special Gudi flag, lively street processions, dancing, and indulging in festive foods.

Significance of Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa signifies the onset of spring and the harvest of Rabi crops. According to certain beliefs, it commemorates the day when Lord Brahma created time and the universe. In rural parts of Maharashtra, Gudi Padwa is associated with Shiva’s dance and the community coming together to carry Gudhi Kavads to a Shiva temple.

The Gudi flag is thought to protect against evil and bring prosperity and good fortune into homes. Legend has it that the Gudi flag represents the triumph of King Shalivahana, celebrated by his people upon his return to the city of Paithan. Additionally, it is believed to symbolize Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, with the festival honoring Rama’s coronation upon his return to Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile.

Astrological significance of Ugadi

Ugadi 2024, apart from being a time of celebration, holds significant astrological importance. According to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, this festival signifies the beginning of a new astronomical cycle. The tilt of the Earth’s axis during this time allows the northern hemisphere to receive the maximum amount of sunlight, initiating a period that lasts for over 21 days, starting from the day of the festival.

Astrologically, this period is believed to rejuvenate the Earth and mark a fresh start for nature and its cycles. It symbolizes a time of renewal and growth.

Gudi Padwa Ritual & Puja Vidhi

On Gudi Padwa, the day starts with an oil bath and concludes with special prayers. Devotees also enjoy neem leaves with jaggery or other seeds. After the oil bath, homes are adorned with rangoli and other decorations inspired by spring.

Following this, traditional rituals take place, including a sacred puja dedicated to Lord Brahma and a havan to invoke the blessings of Lord Vishnu and his various forms.

Meanwhile, women in Maharashtra mark the occasion by creating stunning “Gudi” in their homes and worshipping them. Gudi is essentially a flag made from an inverted pot of silver or copper, draped with yellow cloth, and placed atop a bamboo pole. It is believed that the Gudi brings prosperity and safeguards families from negative influences.

1. The day typically begins with an oil bath, followed by special prayers.
2. Devotees consume neem leaves with jaggery or other seeds.
3. Homes are adorned with rangoli and other decorations, symbolizing the vibrant colors of spring.
4. A puja is performed to worship Lord Brahma, accompanied by a havan to offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and his incarnations.
5. Women in Maharashtra create ‘Gudi’ in their homes, a flag-like structure made of an inverted silver or copper pot covered with yellow cloth and placed atop a bamboo stick. It is believed to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune to families.
6. After the rituals and Puja, prasadam is distributed among others, which typically includes gram lentils, honey, and cumin seeds.

How is Ugadi Celebrated?

1. Early Morning Bath: People rise before dawn and take a ceremonial oil bath, considered auspicious for the occasion.
2. Bathing of Idols: Idols of Gods and Goddesses are bathed with water while chanting mantras, signifying purification and divine blessings.
3. Decoration: Homes and workplaces are adorned with mango leaves and flowers, with special attention given to beautifying the entrance.
4. Rangoli: Colorful rangolis are created in front of houses, adding to the festive ambiance.
5. New Attire: Individuals dress in new clothes and gather with family members for prayers, particularly seeking blessings from the Sun God.
6. Bevu Bella: A significant dish called Bevu Bella is prepared and consumed on this day, symbolizing the mixture of bitter and sweet experiences in life.
7. Temple Visits: People visit temples together for Ugadi puja and make offerings to seek auspicious beginnings for the New Year.
8. Panchang Shravanam: The Panchang, or astrological almanac, is ceremonially read by priests or astrologers, providing insights into the upcoming year. Alternatively, the eldest member of the family may take on this responsibility.

Special Dishes Prepared on Gudi Padwa and Ugadi

Puran Poli is one of Maharashtra’s most beloved sweet delicacies, known for its irresistible taste and richness. Filled with a delectable mixture of jaggery and chana dal combined with besan and cooked in generous amounts of ghee, Puran Poli has the power to tempt even the most health-conscious individuals to indulge and break their dietary restrictions. A serving of hot, freshly made, and soft Puran Polis can truly elevate the joy of celebrating Gudi Padwa.

Ugadi is celebrated with a special dish known as Bevu Bella or Ugadi Pachadi. This dish is symbolic, representing the various flavors of life. Here’s how each ingredient signifies different aspects of life:

1. Neem leaves add bitterness, symbolizing life’s challenges and difficulties.
2. Raw mangoes contribute a tangy flavor, representing the surprises and unexpected twists in life’s journey.
3. Chilli powder adds spiciness, symbolizing moments of anger and passion.
4. Tamarind provides a sour taste, signifying the hurdles and obstacles faced in life.
5. Jaggery brings sweetness, symbolizing joyous and happy occasions.
6. Salt introduces a savory element, representing the interesting and savory moments of life.

Authentic Rituals. Performed At Home

Performing Gudi Padwa or Ugadi Puja with Shubhpuja is a unique opportunity to engage in authentic rituals and ceremonies online. Shubhpuja offers a one-of-a-kind online puja services where individuals in the U.S. can connect with experienced Indian Pandits, Brahmins, and Shastris via video chat to perform the Puja in real time.

Here’s how you can book a Puja online with Shubhpuja through Quicklly:

1. Visit the Puja and Astrology section on our website, where you’ll find a variety of pujas and related services.
2. Choose the Puja that best suits your needs and preferences.
3. Complete the online booking process and make the payment for the selected Puja.
4. Upon receiving your order, you can Book a pandit to conduct the Puja online who will guide you about auspicious date and time.
5. You will receive a confirmation link, including a chat option, allowing you to communicate directly with the appointed Pandit to address any questions or concerns you may have.
6. On the day of the Puja, the video chat option will be activated, enabling you to actively participate in and observe the ritual guided by our esteemed Pandit.

With Shubhpuja’s online puja services, you can engage in traditional rituals and ceremonies from the comfort of your home, while receiving guidance and support from experienced Pandits every step of the way.

Revel in the Spirit of Puja Traditions in The U.S.

Gudi Padwa and Ugadi are more than just a festival; they represent a celebration of heritage, unity, and the perpetual cycle of renewal. As we greet the arrival of another year with delight and fervor, let us embrace the enduring traditions and principles encapsulated by this auspicious event.

Whether through the observance of age-old rituals or contemporary interpretations, these festivals serve as a source of inspiration and a unifying force marking the assurance of prosperity and joy in the times to come.

Participate wholeheartedly in these Indian festivals as you perform authentic traditional rituals guided by our esteemed pandits online.

Book your online Puja NOW.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Gudi Padwa & Ugadi.

Originally Published on Quicklly