The victory flag
The Gudi symbolises victory and prosperity. It is believed to commemorate Rama's victorious return to Ayodhya and, in Maratha history, the victories of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Maratha regional tradition
Festival Profile
Gudi Padwa
Marathi New Year, marked by the raised gudi flag and festive greetings.
Gudi Padwa is the Marathi New Year, marked by the hoisting of the Gudi (a bright flag) as a symbol of victory, prosperity and auspiciousness.
Stories behind the festival
Why we celebrate
Gudi Padwa is the Marathi New Year, marked by the hoisting of the Gudi (a bright flag) as a symbol of victory, prosperity and auspiciousness.
Maharashtrian lunisolar tradition
When
Gudi Padwa falls on the first day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra (March-April), the Marathi new year.
Since when it is followed
Gudi Padwa has been the Marathi new year for centuries, tied to the lunisolar calendar.
Maharashtra regional tradition
Who celebrates / for whom
Celebrated by Maharashtrian communities in India and worldwide.
Origin
The origin is the new lunisolar year, and the Gudi commemorates the victory of the Marathas and the Ramayana's victory of Rama.
Maratha victory tradition; lunisolar new year
Key deities
Lord Brahma and Lord Rama (victory), and Goddess Gauri in some traditions.
How to celebrate
Hoist the Gudi (a bright cloth on a bamboo staff topped with a garland and neem leaves), take an oil bath, and perform the new-year puja.
Rituals & offerings
Gudi hoisting, oil bath, panchangam reading, and festive foods like shrikhand and puran poli.
Key facts
Gudi Padwa falls on the same day as Ugadi in South India.
Regional tradition