Gudi Padwa is a spring-time festival that marks the traditional new year for Marathi and Konkani Hindus but is also celebrated by other Hindus. It is celebrated in and around Maharashtra, Goa, and the union territory of Daman on the first day of the Chaitra month, to mark the beginning of the new year according to the lunisolar method of the Hindu calendar. Padava or paadvo comes from the Sanskrit word pratipada, which is the first day of a lunar fortnight. The spring festival is observed with colourful floor decorations called rangoli, a special Gudhi dvaja (flag garlanded with flowers, mango & neem leaves, topped with upturned silver or copper vessels), street processions, dancing & festive foods.

In Maharashtra, first day of the bright phase of the moon is called Gudhi Padwa in Marathi, paḍya (Konkani: पाडयो; Kannada: ಪಾಡ್ಯ; Telugu: పాడ్యమి, Paadyami). Konkani Hindus variously refer to the day as सौसार पाडवो or सौसार पाडयो (samsara paḍavo / samsara pāḍye), संसार (samsara) being a corruption of the word संवत्सर (saṁvatsara). Telugu Hindus celebrate the same occasion as Ugadi, while Kannada Hindus in Karnataka refer to it as युगादि, ಯುಗಾದಿ (yugadi). The Sindhi community celebrates this day as Cheti Chand as the new year and observed as the emergence day of Lord Jhulelal. Prayers are offered to Lord Jhulelal and the festival is celebrated by making delicacies like Tahiri (sweet rice) and Sai Bhaji (spinach cooked with a sprinkle of chana dal).

However, this is not the universal new year for all Hindus. For some, such as those in and near Gujarat, the new year festivities coincide with the five-day Diwali festival. For many others, the new year falls on Vaisakhi between 13 and 15 April, according to the solar cycle part of the Hindu lunisolar calendar and this is by far the most popular not only among Hindus of the Indian subcontinent but also among Buddhists and Hindus in many parts of southeast Asia.

Etymology
Gudhi means flag, erect flag on the houses as part of celebration in Maharashtra where its mainly celebrated. According to Kittel word belongs to South Indian language origin. The word pāḍavā is derived from the Sanskrit word pratipad for the first day of each fortnight in a lunar month i.e., the first day on which the moon appears after the so-called "new moon" day (Amavasya) and the first day after the full moon. A Gudhi is also hoisted on this occasion giving this festival its name. The term padva or padavo is also associated with balipratipad the third day of Diwali which is another celebration that comes at the end of the harvesting season.

Significance
Gudhi Padwa signifies the arrival of spring and to the reaping of Rabi crops. This festival is linked to the mythical day on which Hindu god Brahma created time and universe. To some, it commemorates the coronation of Rama in Ayodhya after his victory over evil Ravana, or alternatively, the start of Shalivahan calendar after he defeated the Huns invasion in the 1st century. According to Anne Feldhaus, in rural Maharashtra the festival is linked to Shiva's dance and coming together of the community as they carry the Gudhi Kavads together to a Shiva temple.

The Gudhi
A notable sight during Gudhi Padwa is the numerous Gudhi (or Gudhi) arrangements at every household. It is a bright colourful silk scarf-like cloth tied at the top of a long bamboo. On top of it, one or more boughs of neem leaves and mango leaves are attached along with a garland of flowers. This arrangement is capped with a silver, bronze, or copper pot (handi or kalash) signifying victory or achievement. This whole arrangement is hoisted outside each household, typically to the right, or through a window or terrace. It is visible to everybody. Villages or neighbourhoods also come together and host a community Gudhi Kavad, which they carry together to the local Shiva temple. Some temples are located on the top of hills, and groups work together to help reach the kavad to the top. Some of the significances attributed to raising a Gudhi are as follows:

What is a celebration without food???Gudi Padwa is enjoyed with great gusto when one samples these grand Maharashtrian delicacies. I endeavour to recreate the nodal culinary delights for you...                                                                                                                                                                             

Puran Poli
It is a delectable Maharashtrian delicacy and a must-have dish on Gudi Padwa. It features a sumptuous filling of cooked chana dal, jaggery, and spices, encased in a soft, wheat-based dough. Pan-fried until golden brown and served hot with a dollop of ghee, Pooran Poli is a comforting and indulgent treat enjoyed by families as they come together to celebrate the New Year.

Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a creamy and indulgent dessert that holds a special place in Gudi Padwa celebrations. It is prepared by straining thick yoghurt and sweetening it with sugar, this delicacy is infused with saffron, cardamom, and nuts for an irresistible flavour. Usually served chilled, Shrikhand symbolises purity, prosperity, and the sweetness of new beginnings.
 

Kothimbir Vadi
This is a popular savoury snack originating from Maharashtra and is a delightful addition to Gudi Padwa feasts. It is made from besan, coriander leaves, and spices, this savoury cake is steamed and then shallow-fried until crispy. With its aromatic flavours and crispy texture, Kothimbir Vadi adds a savoury twist to the festive spread, symbolising joy, and togetherness.

Aam Panna
Aam Panna, a refreshing and tangy drink made from raw mangoes, is a popular beverage enjoyed during Gudi Padwa festivities, especially to beat the summer heat. Prepared by cooking raw mango pulp with sugar and spices, Aam Panna is then diluted with water and served chilled with a dash of mint leaves. Its rejuvenating properties and zesty flavour make it a quintessential drink for celebrating new beginnings.

Potato Bhaji
This is a simple yet flavourful potato dish, which is a staple accompaniment to festive meals during Gudi Padwa. Prepared by sauteing boiled potatoes with mustard seeds, turmeric, green chillies, and curry leaves, this aromatic side dish pairs perfectly with Puran Poli, adding warmth and spice to the festive spread. The dishes so kaleidoscopically created for the readers are all Vedic recipes. They are the Gastronomical legacy handed down to us from our Ancestors. Needless to say, they are scientific in composition and are focused on holistic wellness. Above all they are heavenly in their delectable taste and flavour.