Chaitra Shukla Pratipada

Festival, New Year Celebration

Regional Public Holiday (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Sindhi communities)

Marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year (Vikram Samvat / Saka Samvat, depending on the region), the start of Chaitra Navratri, and the arrival of Spring (Vasanta Ritu). It symbolizes new beginnings, creation, and is celebrated with various regional customs.

Key Rituals & Practices

Performing special pujas and prayers for prosperity in the new year.

Decorating homes with torans (door hangings), rangolis, and flowers.

Preparing festive traditional foods specific to the region (e.g., Ugadi Pachadi, Puran Poli).

Taking ritualistic baths (Abhyanga Snana).

Hoisting the 'Gudi' (a decorated stick with an inverted pot) in Maharashtra and Goa.

Listening to the 'Panchang Shravanam' (recitation of the new year's almanac) to know the year's predictions.

Associated Deities

Lord Brahma (for creation)

Goddess Durga (as it marks the start of Navratri)

Lord Vishnu (as preserver of the new cycle)

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Chaitra

Paksha

Shukla Paksha (Bright Fortnight)

Tithi

Pratipada (First day)

Regional Relevance & Variations

undefined

Historical & Mythological Context

According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Brahma began the creation of the universe on this auspicious day (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada). It is also associated with the coronation of King Shalivahana, marking the beginning of the Shalivahana Saka calendar. The day also commemorates Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya, and it is believed that Goddess Durga began her battle against the demon Mahishasura on this day, leading to the nine days of Navratri.

Alternative Names

Hindu New Year

Samvatsararambha

Gudi Padwa

Ugadi

Cheti Chand

Navreh

Sajibu Nongma Panba

Chaitra Navratri Begins

Vasanta Navratri Begins

Gregorian Date

Varies Annually (Typically late March or early April)