Gudi Padwa is one of the major festivals celebrated in Maharashtra. The spring-time festival falls on the first day of the Hindu month, which coincides with March or April according to the Gregorian calendar, and marks the beginning of the New Year. According to mythology, it is the day when Lord Brahma created the Universe and hence is considered one of the most auspicious days of the year. While for some people it is the day when Lord Rama was coronated in Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana.
In Maharashtra, as a reminder to life’s sweet and bitter experiences, families prepare a special dish that includes various flavours and is made of neem leaves (bitter), jaggery (sweet), coriander seeds (astringent) and tamarind (sour). People tie bright coloured silk cloth on bamboo and adorn with neem leaves and flowers. Hoisting of Gudi signifies warding off evil and bringing in good luck and prosperity. In 2019, Gudi Padwa falls on April 6.
Significance of hoisting Gudi:
- It is believed that ‘Gudi’ symbolises ‘Brahmadhvaj’ meaning Brahma’s flag. According to Brahma Purana, Lord Brahma created the universe on Gudi Padwa.
- It is also believed that Gudi Padwa is celebrated to commemorate the coronation of Lord Rama post his return from 14 years of exile.
How to hoist a Gudi?
- Tie a yellow, green or red cloth on the tip of a bamboo stick.
- Tie neem and mango leaves around the cloth. Neem leaves are used for purification while mango leaves for a fresh beginning.
- Tie a garland and sugar crystals on the leaves.
- Put an inverted copper or silver pot over the cloth. Draw a symbol of a swastika with kumkum on it.
- Now place the Gudi slightly tilted on the right side of the entrance of your home or window.
- Family members recite mantras and offer bhog to Gudi.
- The puja gets complete the next day when family members drink the water from the inverted pot.