Gudi Padwa
Gudi Padwa is celebrated on `Chaitra Shukla
Pratipada’. It is the first day of the New Year according to the Hindu
calendar. Gudi Padwa or Ugadi is celebrated in the states of Maharashtra, Goa,
Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and is considered as one of the four most
auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. Many consider this day ideal for the
purchase of ornaments or a house amongst other things.
Gudi Padwa is celebrated for a number of reasons.
1) It is believed that Brahma Dev (Creator of this world)
created the world on this day and is therefore worshipped.
2) It is also believed that the `Gudi (flag) is a
symbol of Shri Rama’s victory over Ravan and his subsequent reinstatement to
his post in Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile.
3) The people of Maharashtra also see the Gudi as
a symbol of victory associated with the conquests of the Maratha forces led by
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
4) This day also marks the end of one agricultural
harvest and the beginning of a new one.
On Gudi Padwa, a Gudi is found hanging out of a
window or prominently displayed in Hindu households. Gudi has a bright coloured
cloth adorned with brocade tied to the tip of a long bamboo over which sugar
candy, neem leaves, a twig of mango leaves and a garland of red flowers is
tied. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it. This
Gudi is then hoisted outside the house, in a window, terrace or a high place so
that everybody can see it.
On this festive day, courtyards in village houses
will be swept clean and plastered with fresh cow-dung. Even in cities, people
take time out to do some spring cleaning.
Women and children work on intricate rangoli
designs on their doorsteps, the vibrant colours mirroring the burst of colour
associated with spring. Everyone dresses up in new clothes and it is a time for
family gatherings.
