πŸ“œ Significance:

Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year (according to the lunisolar calendar) and is one of the most auspicious festivals in Maharashtra. It falls on the first day of Chaitra month (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada) and symbolizes victory, prosperity, and a fresh start. The “Gudi” – a sacred flag-like structure hoisted outside homes – is a symbol of victory and welcoming positivity into the household.

This day is believed to be the one when Lord Brahma created the universe, and Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana – hence, the Gudi signifies both creation and triumph.

πŸ—“οΈ When It’s Performed:

On the first day of the Chaitra month, usually in March or April, during the morning hours (Brahma Muhurta preferred).

πŸ› Who Can Perform:

  • Performed by household heads, newly married couples, or anyone starting something new
  • Can be done individually or with guidance from a Panditji

πŸ“¦ Puja Samagri (Items Required):

  • Gudi (ΰ€—ΰ₯ΰ€’ΰ₯€):
    • Bamboo stick
    • Bright silk cloth (preferably yellow or green)
    • Neem leaves, mango leaves, sugar crystals (gaathi), flower garland
    • Inverted silver or copper pot (kalash)
  • Puja thali with:
    • Akshata (rice mixed with turmeric)
    • Haldi, kumkum, sandalwood
    • Agarbatti, diya, camphor
    • Fruits, coconut, sweets (especially Puran Poli or Shrikhand)
    • Panchamrit

πŸ•―οΈ Main Rituals:

  1. House cleaning and decorating the entrance with rangoli and toran
  2. Hoisting the Gudi outside the main door or on the balcony – facing East
  3. Tilak to the Gudi, offering flowers, sugar garlands, neem-patra
  4. Lighting diya and offering incense
  5. Performing simple puja with mantras and aarti of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and the Gudi
  6. Offering naivedya (bhog) – mostly homemade festive sweets
  7. Family members take blessings of elders and consume neem-jaggery paste, symbolizing health and balance of sweet–bitter experiences in life

⏳ Duration of Puja:

Approx. 30 to 45 minutes

🎁 Benefits of Gudi Padwa Puja:

  • Welcomes the new year with divine blessings
  • Ensures victory in personal and professional life
  • Invites prosperity, protection, and positivity into the home
  • Ideal time to begin new ventures, marriages, or housewarming rituals