Hindi New Year

Religious Festival, New Year Celebration, Cultural Observance

Regional Holiday in some states (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana)

1 day (main observance, festivities may extend)

Marks the traditional Hindu New Year, representing new beginnings and the arrival of spring. It is believed to be the day Lord Brahma created the universe and is also the first day of Vasant Navratri.

Key Rituals & Practices

Thorough cleaning and decoration of homes (rangoli, torans of mango and neem leaves)

Taking ritualistic oil bath

Wearing new clothes

Performing puja and offering prayers to deities

Consuming specific dishes like Ugadi Pachadi (a mix of sweet, sour, bitter, spicy representing life's varying experiences) in South India, or Puran Poli in Maharashtra.

Raising the 'Gudi' (a decorated flag) in Maharashtra (Gudi Padwa)

Listening to the Panchanga Shravanam (reading of the new year's almanac) in South India

Beginning new ventures and projects

Visiting temples and performing charity

Associated Deities

Lord Brahma (creator)

Lord Vishnu (preserver)

Devi (as it begins Vasant Navratri)

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Chaitra

Paksha

Shukla Paksha

Tithi

Pratipada

Regional Relevance & Variations

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Historical & Mythological Context

According to Hindu mythology, this day is significant as it is believed to be the day Lord Brahma created the universe. It also marks the coronation of Lord Rama after his return to Ayodhya and the victory of the Shalivahana king (associated with Gudi Padwa). Astronomically, it coincides with the spring equinox, signifying a period of natural renewal and agricultural cycles.

Alternative Names

Chaitra Shukla Pratipada

Hindu New Year

Vikram Samvat New Year

Gudi Padwa

Ugadi

Navreh

Cheti Chand

Sajibu Nongma Panba

Varsha Pratipada

Gregorian Date

Varies annually, typically in March or April