Mumbai: Gudi Padwa 2024 marks the beginning of a new year for many people across India. From Poila Boishak in West Bengal to Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, various states commence their New Year festivities during this period. It also signifies the onset of the harvest season, with many traditional New Year dishes being prepared. In Maharashtra, this auspicious occasion is celebrated as Gudi Padwa, considered the Marathi New Year. This year, Gudi Padwa falls on April 9. It is the first day of the Chaitra month marking the onset of spring. Gudi Padwa festival symbolises new beginnings and prosperity. According to Drik Panchang, the Pratipada Tithi begins at 11:50 pm on April 8 and concludes at 8:30 pm on April 9.
On Gudi Padwa, the day typically starts with an early morning oil bath followed by prayers. People consume a mixture of neem leaves, jaggery, and various seeds and offer prayers to Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu.
On Gudi Padwa, people traditionally hoist a Gudi flag, which is a symbol of victory and prosperity. The Gudi is made by placing a bright green or yellow cloth adorned with brocade (zari) on a bamboo stick. A silver or copper pot (kalash) is placed inverted over it. This Gudi is then hoisted outside homes, symbolising the welcoming of the New Year. Women play an essential role in the celebrations by preparing traditional dishes and creating intricate rangoli designs at the entrance of their homes.
Gudi Padwa is not just a festival but a confluence of mythology, history, and culture. It celebrates the spirit of new beginnings, prosperity, and the rich heritage of Maharashtra and its people. Over the years, the festival has evolved, but its essence remains unchanged, symbolising hope, happiness, and renewal.
The history of Gudi Padwa dates back to ancient times, rooted in various legends and myths. It encompasses religious, mythological, and historical significance. Here are the primary reasons why Gudi Padwa is celebrated:
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day, making Gudi Padwa an auspicious day signifying the beginning of creation and the New Year.
Gudi Padwa also commemorates the victory of Maratha warriors, particularly the legendary king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. After defeating the Mughals, Shivaji Maharaj hoisted the victory flag (gudi) in his capital, marking the triumph of good over evil.
The festival also marks the onset of the harvest season. Farmers start ploughing their fields and sowing new crops, invoking blessings from the Gods for a prosperous agricultural year.
Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year, is celebrated with traditional rituals and prayers. If you are planning to perform the Gudi Padwa puja, here is a list of essential items (puja samagri) that you may need:
Bamboo stick
Bright green or yellow cloth (preferably silk saree)
Brocade (zari) for decoration
Inverted silver or copper pot (kalash) to place on top
Milk
Curd
Ghee (clarified butter)
Honey
Sugar or jaggery
Sweets (like Puran Poli, Shrikhand, or Ladoo)
Fruits (especially bananas and coconuts)
Dry fruits (like almonds and cashews)
Other items:
Rangoli powder (various colours)
Rangoli stencil or templates (optional)
Rice flour (for traditional white rangoli)
Mango and Neem Leaves
Mango leaves garland
Coconut
Incense Sticks and Dhoop
Diya
Brass or clay diya
Cotton wicks
Ghee or oil for the diya
Puja thali
Bell and conch shell
A book containing Gudi Padwa-specific prayers, mantras, or hymns
Remember, while these are the traditional items used during Gudi Padwa puja, the specific requirements might vary based on regional customs and personal preferences. It is always a good idea to consult with elders or a priest for guidance on performing the puja correctly.
Clean the puja area and decorate it with colourful rangoli designs. Place a clean cloth on the place where puja is going to be performed. Arrange all the puja samagri in a puja thali.
Take a bamboo stick and wrap a bright green or yellow cloth or silk saree around it. Decorate the cloth with brocade (zari). Place an inverted silver or copper pot (kalash) on top of the bamboo stick.
Fill the silver or copper pot (kalash) with water. Place mango leaves around the opening of the kalash. Place a coconut on top of the kalash.
Light the diya and dhoop. Ring the bell to invoke the blessings of the deities. Take five foods (milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar/jaggery) in separate bowls. Mix them to make Panchamrut. Offer Panchamrut to the deity.
Offer sweets, fruits, and dry fruits to the deity. Sing aarti using the diya filled with ghee or oil. Sing traditional Gudi Padwa aarti or any other devotional song. Chant Gudi Padwa-specific prayers, mantras, or hymns. You can use a prayer book or mantra chanting guide for this.
After performing the puja, hoist the decorated Gudi outside your home, preferably on the right side of the main entrance.
Distribute the prasad (offered sweets and fruits) to family members and guests. Enjoy the traditional Gudi Padwa festive meal with family and friends, by participating in cultural activities, dances, and other festive celebrations.
It is advisable to perform the puja early in the morning after taking an oil bath and wearing clean clothes.
You can also consult a priest or experienced family members for guidance and to ensure that the puja is performed correctly as per traditions. This is a general Gudi Padwa puja vidhi. The specific rituals and practices may vary based on regional customs and family traditions.
Gudi Padwa is an integral part of the Maharashtrian culture and heritage. It brings families together, fostering unity and strengthening cultural bonds. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and traditional fervour, involving rituals, prayers, and festive activities.
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