Indians all over the world are preparing to celebrate the New Year or as we know it, Gudi Padwa for Maharashtrians or Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh or Cheti Chand among Sindhi people. It is one of the most important festivals celebrated. Filled with everything from cleaning houses, repainting to shopping for new clothes, gold and electronics the New Year celebrations are in top gear during Gudi Padwa. As we are all set to be a part of this celebration here are five things you should know about Gudi Padwa.
Why is it celebrated?
It has significant importance in the Hindu Mythology. It is believed that Brahma, the creator, created the universe this day. People of Ayodhya welcomed Rama on his return after he destroyed the evil forces of Ravana. So, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. This is the main reason why people believe that this day brings in good luck and prosperity.
The Gudi
A green or yellow cloth is tied to the tip of a long bamboo and is adorned with sugar crystals, neem leaves, mango leaves and a garland of red flowers. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it.
Why is it placed?
It is believed that when lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after finishing 14 years of exile; people in Ayodhya welcomed him by hoisting Gudis out of their windows. Nowadays, Gudis are hoisted to ward off evil, invite prosperity and good luck into the house.
The food
Various special delicacies are made to celebrate this auspicious day. Maharashtrians prepare traditional dishes like Shrikhand and Poori or Puran Poli. In South India, the day is celebrated by the preparation of a mixture of six tastes called Ugadi Pachhadi or Bevu Bella.
The celebrations
The celebration begins early in the morning as the members of the family get up early and raise the Gudi on the right side of the main entrance of the house. This Gudi is tied at the right side because Hindus consider right side as auspicious. This Gudi is raised at the time of sunrise and needs to be taken down before the sunset. This celebration is enriched by the gathering of all the relatives together and seeking the Almighty’s blessings.
Why is it celebrated?
It has significant importance in the Hindu Mythology. It is believed that Brahma, the creator, created the universe this day. People of Ayodhya welcomed Rama on his return after he destroyed the evil forces of Ravana. So, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil. This is the main reason why people believe that this day brings in good luck and prosperity.
The Gudi
A green or yellow cloth is tied to the tip of a long bamboo and is adorned with sugar crystals, neem leaves, mango leaves and a garland of red flowers. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it.
Why is it placed?
It is believed that when lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after finishing 14 years of exile; people in Ayodhya welcomed him by hoisting Gudis out of their windows. Nowadays, Gudis are hoisted to ward off evil, invite prosperity and good luck into the house.
The food
Various special delicacies are made to celebrate this auspicious day. Maharashtrians prepare traditional dishes like Shrikhand and Poori or Puran Poli. In South India, the day is celebrated by the preparation of a mixture of six tastes called Ugadi Pachhadi or Bevu Bella.
The celebrations
The celebration begins early in the morning as the members of the family get up early and raise the Gudi on the right side of the main entrance of the house. This Gudi is tied at the right side because Hindus consider right side as auspicious. This Gudi is raised at the time of sunrise and needs to be taken down before the sunset. This celebration is enriched by the gathering of all the relatives together and seeking the Almighty’s blessings.