Gudi Padva: The Traditional Start Of Hindu Calendar For Konkani And Marathi Hindus

Gudi Padva

Gudi Padva, is a monthly festival that reminds us of India’s authentic traditional past, a festival that teaches us about India’s traditional heritage, the upcoming occasion is known as Gudi Padva.

The word Gudi represents Lord Brahma’s flag, while Padva represents the first day of a new Moon phase. Besides that, people believe that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day, and that Lord Rama was crowned after defeating Ravana. It is also one of the most important festivals for the Maharashtrians.

Significance of Gudi Padva

Gudi Padva marks the beginning of spring and the harvesting of Rabi season crops. The festival tells the story of how the Hindu god Brahma created the universe and time. Some believe it honors Rama’s crowing in Ayodhya after his victory over Ravana, while others believe it marks the start of the Shalivahan calendar after his victory against the Huns invasion in the first century.

According to Anne Feldhaus, the rural Maharashtra celebration is associated with Shiva’s dance and the community coming together as they carry the Gudi Kavads to a Shiva shrine. This festival is also known as Ugadi.

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How it is celebrated?

During this festival, the courtyards are kept clean and freshly coated with cow manure. Spring cleaning is done in cities. Women and children create beautiful rangoli patterns on their doorsteps, the vibrant colors reflecting the springtime explosion of color. This is a time for family gatherings and dressing up in new outfits.

Puran Poli, Shrikhand, Crispy Sabudana Vada, Kaju Modak, Coconut Laddoo, and many other specialties are prepared. Most dishes contain flavors, particularly bitter neem tree leaves and sweet jaggery (gur, gul). People make and place handmade gudhi or gudi’ in their homes, wear new clothes, and purchase gold and precious gems.