Gudhi Padwa, or Gudi Padva, is the New Year is the New Year in traditional Marathi Hindu calendar followed in Maharashtra. Gudhi Padwa 2010 date is March 16. Gudhi Padva is observed mainly in Maharashtra, Goa, parts of northern Karnataka and parts of Madhya Pradesh. The first month in the Marathi calendar is Chaitra and Gudhi Padwa is observed on Chaitra 1 or the first day of Chait. The most important event on the day is the hoisting of the Gudhi (victory flags) in front of the homes.
In 2010, as per Marathi calendar the Shalivahana Shaka 1932 begins.
There are numerous legends associated with the flag hoisting on Gudi Padwa and it varies from region to region and from community to community. The most important legends are the defeat of Shakas by Shaliavahan and some people hoist it to commemorate the victories of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The highlight of the day is the hoisting of flags on a bamboo staff. The flag hoisted on Maharashtrian New Year is made of green or yellow colored silk cloth. A bright garlanded goblet is hung on top of the flag pole. Neem leaves, mango leaves, garland of red flowers and gaohi (sweet) are hung on the Gudhi. Rangoli is drawn near the Gudi or in front of the house.
Offering made of neem leaves and neem flowers and jaggery is distributed on the day. The offering consists of neem leaves and neem flowers, soaked dal, cumin seeds, honey or jaggery and asafetida. The offering symbolically indicates that life is filled with joy and sorrow.
Gudi Padva is one of the most auspicious days in the Marathi Hindu Calendar and is considered ideal for starting new ventures and investment. It is believed that every moment on the Gudhi Padwa day is auspicious. The day also heralds the arrival of the spring season.
Delicious food, which includes sweets and special Maharashtrian cuisines, are prepared on the day is distributed to neighbors, friends, relatives and farm laborers and other workers.
The day is observed as Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
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