If your delivery address is outside India, then kindly visit one of the following websites
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The legend behind Gudi Padwa is interesting. Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, and the people of Ayodhya celebrated his victory by hoisting a 'Dhwaj' on a bamboo pole. This flag was called 'Brahmadhwaj' or 'Gudhi' and was decorated with neem leaves, mango leaves, and a piece of cloth with red and yellow colour. This flag was hoisted on the first day of Chaitra. Thus, Gudi Padwa is also considered a symbol of victory and new beginnings. However, the origins of Gudi Padwa celebrations can be traced back to the Maratha Empire. It is believed that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj first celebrated it after his victory over the Mughals. It is thought that the Gudi symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and the Kalash on the top represents abundance and prosperity. Gudi Padwa is hence not merely a festival but a celebration of culture, tradition, and unity. It brings people together and spreads love, peace, and harmony. The festival also reminds us of the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage and passing it on to the next generation.
According to the lunar calendar, the day marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year. It is a time for new beginnings, resolutions, and fresh starts. The festival also has a rich cultural significance and is celebrated differently across these regions. For instance - in Maharashtra, this festival is celebrated by hoisting a Gudi, a decorated pole with colourful cloth, flowers, and a copper pot called a kalash on the top. This Gudi is placed outside the house as a symbol of victory, prosperity, and good fortune. In Goa, the festival is known as Samvatsar Padvo and is celebrated by preparing traditional dishes such as ukdiche modak, etc. In Karnataka, the festival is known as Ugadi and is marked by preparing a special dish called Obbattu or Holige. Gudi Padwa is a great time to renew relationships and forgo past grievances. People come together to celebrate the festival, exchange greetings, and enjoy traditional dishes. It is a time to strengthen family bonds and build new relationships.
"Gudi" refers to a bamboo stick with a decorated cloth, and "Padwa" means the first day of the new year. Today, people hoist a Gudi, believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. The Gudi is made by tying a colourful cloth on top of a bamboo stick adorned with neem leaves, mango leaves, and a garland made of sugar crystals called "sakhar gathi." It is then hoisted on the roof or balcony of the house. Boosting the Gudi outside the house is believed to bring positive energy and abundance. On Gudi Padwa, people wake up early and dress in new clothes. They decorate their household with rangoli and torans made of flowers and mango leaves. Many prepare dishes such as Puran Poli, Aamras, and Sabudana Khichdi. They may also prepare neem leaves and jaggery, a traditional dish that signifies the bitterness and sweetness of life. A special dish called Shrikhand Puri is ready and offered to the deities as worship. People also exchange sweets, gifts, and greetings with each other.
Placing Gudi at your home helps to usher awareness, prosperity and happiness. Placing the well-designed gudi in the eastern direction helps to channel positive energy into life.
To design the same, follow the below-mentioned procedures -
Before beginning the Puja, bathe before sunrise and apply oil to imbibe sun energy into your body. You can choose to do havan or puja for added benefits.
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Posted By : Arpita Mathur
Updated On: 25 June, 2024