Gudi Padwa 2024: Know date, timings, significance, ritual and more

Gudi Padwa 2024: Preparations are underway in Maharashtra as the state gets ready to celebrate Gudi Padwa, marking the beginning of its New Year according to the Luni-Solar calendar. This year, Gudi Padwa falls on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Gudi Padwa 2024: Timings (Shubh Muhurat)

For those planning puja rituals, the Pratipada Tithi (first lunar day) for Gudi Padwa commences on April 8 at 11:50 PM and concludes on April 9 at 8:30 PM.

Gudi Padwa 2024: Significance and rituals

Gudi Padwa signifies new beginnings, fresh harvests, and optimism for the year ahead. On this day, homes are adorned with vibrant rangolis, and a special flag called 'Gudi' is hoisted. Gudi typically incorporates a silk cloth adorned with neem leaves, a mango twig and a copper or silver pot. Displayed outside homes and establishments, gudi symbolises victory and prosperity for the year ahead.

Gudi Padwa 2024: Festivities and celebrations

Gudi Padwa is a delightful blend of tradition and celebration. The day commences with an invigorating oil bath, followed by prayers and offerings to the deities.  Consuming neem leaves, believed to possess medicinal properties. People wear new clothes, exchange greetings and indulge in delicious traditional fare.

Some of the popular dishes savoured on Gudi Padwa include Shrikhand (a sweet yogurt dish), Poori (deep-fried flatbread), Pooran Poli (a stuffed flatbread) and refreshing drinks like Sundried Lime Juice (Sonth Panak).