How is Gudi padwa celebrated?
Gudi Padwa is celebrated with much zeal in Maharashtra, Traditional Maharashtrian dishes like Puran Poli and Shrikhand are prepared in every Maharashtrian household. It is widely believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day and that was the beginning of ‘Satyuga’. After worshiping Lord Bhrahma, devotees hoist a Gudi (doll) to invoke Lord Vishnu (the savior) to shower his blessings upon them and their family.
A gudi is a doll created with a bamboo stick, mango leaves, Neem and adorned with a red garland. An inverted copper or silver pot is used to create its face and it is decorated with green or red brocade. The Gudi is draped with a silk cloth. The colours - yellow and red symbolize fertility and well - being.
Another popular historical story that is associated with Gudi Padwa is the victory of the great ruler Shivaji . It is believed that on this day, Chatrapati Shivaji hoisted his victory flag upon his territory and began the festivities of Gudi Padwa.
How is Gudi Padwa celebrated across India?
Gudi Padwa is celebrated as Yugadi in Karnataka, or Ugadi in Telangana, as Navreh by Kashmiri Pandits and Cheti Chand by Sindhis. It revolves around the celebration of spring in the agricultural calendar. The date signifies the end of one season and the beginning of another.
The festival marks the harvesting of the Rabi crop and it is officially time for mangoes to flood the market.
Reference - NDTV
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