Gudi Padwa festival on March 20
The Marathi New Year festival of Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on March 20, marking new beginnings [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/festivals/gudi-padwa-2026-when-is-marathi-new-year-check-date-rituals-and-significance/articleshow/129446696.cms]. Celebrations involve raising the Gudi (a decorated flag), cleaning and decorating homes, special prayers, and sharing traditional sweets [https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/gudi-padwa-2026-correct-date-puja-muhurat-guide-to-celebrations-across-state-of-maharashtra]. Astrologers advise using vibrant, auspicious colors for the Gudi’s cloth [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/religion/festivals/gudi-padwa-2026-when-is-marathi-new-year-check-date-rituals-and-significance/articleshow/129446696.cms].
Gudi Padwa not only marks the beginning of the Marathi new year but also signifies the start of the harvest season. It is considered one of the most auspicious days of the year in Maharashtra, with many families starting new ventures or buying property on this day. The festival's traditions extend beyond Maharashtra, with similar celebrations observed in other parts of India under different names. For example, it's known as Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, and Cheti Chand among the Sindhi community. The Gudi itself symbolizes victory and prosperity, and is often adorned with a silk cloth, mango and neem leaves, a garland of flowers, and a silver or copper pot on top. The neem leaves are significant as they represent the bitter experiences in life, while the sugar or sweets symbolize the sweet aspects.
