Significance
Gudi Padwa marks the Marathi and Konkani New Year on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. A gudi (flag) is hoisted outside homes to welcome the new year and ward off evil.
Mythology & Legend
According to tradition, Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. It also commemorates the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya and was crowned. The gudi symbolises victory and prosperity. Chhatrapati Shivaji is said to have hoisted the gudi after victories.
Rituals & Observances
- At dawn, take an oil bath and wear new clothes.
- Hoist the gudi (bamboo pole with cloth, neem leaves, sugar candy, and upturned pot) outside the door.
- Prepare shrikhand and puran poli; eat neem and jaggery for bitter-sweet symbolism.
- Visit the temple and exchange greetings; draw rangoli.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ ब्रह्मणे नमः
oṃ brahmaṇe namaḥ
Salutations to Brahma
Traditional Foods
- ●Shrikhand
- ●Puran poli
- ●Puran
- ●Shrikhand puri
- ●Neem and jaggery
Regional Variations
Maharashtra(गुढी पाडवा)
Gudi hoisting, shrikhand-puri
Goa/Konkan(संवत्सर पाडवा)
Same as Maharashtra
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Hoist the gudi
- ✓Eat neem and jaggery
- ✓Wear new clothes
- ✓Visit temple
Don'ts
- ✗Do not skip the gudi
- ✗Avoid inauspicious activities
- ✗Do not disrespect the new year