Gudhi Padwa is celebrated on first day of lunar month, Chaitra. It is the beginning of the new year, Hindu Shaliwahan Shak. Hindus belive Lord Brahma created the Universe on this day & hence it is believed to be the beginning of the Universe. It is said that on this day Brahma waves or elememnts are very active, so a Brahma Dhwaja or Flag of Brahma is raised outside the house. The flag is made with long wooden pole. A piece of new cotton or silk clot is tied to the end of the pole. On the top an inverted copper or silver bowl is placed which acts as an antenna to attract the waves to bring these positive waves in our homes.
Another reason for the importance of this day is King Shaliwahan started Shaliwahan Shak(Shaliwana Year). Year 2009 is Shaliwahan Shak 1231.
It is one of the 3 1/2 muhurta or auspicious days in hindu calendar. It is considered ideal for thread ceremonies, weddings, start new ventures, move into new home, or for any kind of good beginnings.
For Maharashtrians, Gudhi Padwa is the begining of the new year. This day also marks arrival of spring season. People celebrate this festival by raising the Gudhi outside their houses. They put garlands made of marigold flowers and mango leaves around the house and vehicle (if any). Also there is a tradition to eat Neem (kadunimb) leaves and flowers and prepare sweets.
Posted by Radha Chetan Raj at 3/29/2009 02:32:00 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Labels: Culture
