Gudi Padwa 2025 in India

Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year, celebrated predominantly in Maharashtra and Goa. It symbolizes prosperity and new beginnings, with households raising a decorated Gudi (flag) and preparing traditional sweets like Puran Poli. The festival holds cultural and spiritual significance.

Gudi Padwa: A Public Holiday?

Gudi Padwa is a public holiday in Maharashtra, where offices, schools, and businesses remain closed for celebrations. In other parts of India, Gudi Padwa is often observed as an optional holiday, allowing individuals to take the day off if listed under their optional holiday choices.

Gudi Padwa

According to the lunisolar calendar, Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year, particularly for Maharashtrians and Konkani Hindus. It is believed to commemorate the day when Lord Brahma created the universe. The festival also celebrates the victory of good over evil and prosperity, symbolized by the raising of the Gudi, a flag-like structure that signifies success and wards off negativity. In some traditions, it is associated with the legendary victory of Lord Rama over King Bali or the return of the Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj after significant conquests.

Gudi Padwa Celebration in India

Gudi Padwa is celebrated with great enthusiasm, particularly in Maharashtra and Goa. The day begins with cleaning and decorating homes with rangoli designs and flowers. Families raise the Gudi, a tall bamboo stick adorned with a silk cloth, neem leaves, mango twigs, and a garland. A copper or silver pot is placed on top of the Gudi, symbolizing victory and prosperity. The Gudi is placed at the entrance or window of the house to attract positive energy and blessings.

Special prayers and rituals are performed at homes and temples. Devotees also prepare traditional dishes such as Puran Poli, Shrikhand, and sweetened neem leaves, which symbolize the bittersweet nature of life. Processions and cultural events are organized in many communities, adding a festive vibe to the day. People wear new clothes and exchange greetings to mark the beginning of the New Year.

Gudi Padwa symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and the triumph of good over evil. It celebrates the harvest season, strengthens family bonds, and inspires positivity and fresh beginnings, making it a vibrant festival of hope and heritage.

Gudi Padwa Observances