Jai Hind: Proud to be an Indian

Today is Gudi Padwa. The day is celebrated as Maharshtrian New Year. This day is celebrated on Shuddha Pratipada, the first day in the Hindu month of Chaitra according to Hindu Calendar. The word ‘padwa’ means the end of one harvesting season and beginning of another. According to Brahma Purana, Gudi Padwa is the day on which universe was created by Lord Brahma, Satyug began and Lord Ram returned Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.
On this significant day a ‘gudi’ (auspicious pole) is erected in front of the house. Gudi also called Brahmadhwaj by some is a flag of Lord Brahma symbolizing joy, happiness and celebration of victory. People welcome New Year by worshiping Gudi and a mixture of Neem leaves, tamarind, jaggery, ajwain and gram-pulse is eaten which tends to purify blood. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in almost all states of India, but more so in Maharashtra, as well as Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in south India, where it’s is called ‘Ugadi‘.
Gudi Padwa also represents auspiciousness and is one of the best muhurats of the year to start anything important. The day is in particular considered auspicious for building or entering a new house, putting a child to school, or starting a business. The day is significant to all Hindus. With this day starts the new season – spring. The Gudi Padwa emphasizes to empty your ego, take an inverted look within, hold yourself up to the vast sky of divinity and may your soul remain outdoors, away from the trappings of this world.
The new generation is forgetting this day and that is indeed very painful considering the fact that we hold the responsibility to carry on our tradition and culture. We need to understand the significance of every festival we celebrate and enjoy it thoroughly.

Gudi Padwachya Shubhechcha!

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