Gudipadwa, meaning, the Hindu New Year day !
Celebrate New Year only on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada (Gudi Padwa)
To ensure that the beginning of the New Year begins on an auspicious note, celebrate it according to the Hindu scriptures, on Chaitra Shuddha Pratipada as per the Hindu lunar calendar. This date is glorious in all ways – as per the cycle of Nature and it also has historical and spiritual significance. All this contributes to endowing the one celebrating it, as per the Hindu scriptures, with several benefits .It is believed that good wins over evil and is an auspicious day for all.
Indians all over the world are preparing to celebrate the New Year or as we know it,  Gudi Padwa for Maharashtrians or Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka or Cheti Chand among Sindhi community. It is one of the most important festivals celebrated. Gudi Padwa is also considered as the harvest festival, which shows that the Rabi crop has ended for the season. This is the time when mangoes and fruits are reaped.
Why is it celebrated?
It has significant importance in the Hindu Mythology. It is believed that Brahma, the creator, created the universe this day. People of Ayodhya welcomed Rama on his return after he destroyed the evil forces of Ravana. So, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil.Legend has it that Lord Vishnu took the Matsya incarnation or the form of fish on this day. This was an incarnation to save the entire earth from destruction or pralaya. This is the main reason why people believe that this day brings in good luck and prosperity.
The Preparation of Gudi and its significance
A green or yellow cloth is tied to the tip of a long bamboo and is adorned with sugar crystals, neem leaves, mango leaves and a garland of red flowers. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it.It is believed that when lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after finishing 14 years of exile; people in Ayodhya welcomed him by hoisting Gudis out of their windows.
The food
Various special delicacies are made to celebrate this auspicious day. Maharashtrians prepare traditional dishes like Shrikhand and Poori or Puran Poli. In South India, the day is celebrated by the preparation of a mixture of six tastes called Ugadi Pachhadi,Paysam or Bevu Bella.This celebration is enriched by the gathering of all the relatives together and seeking the Almighty’s blessings
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Benefits of neem on Gudi Padwa and Ugadi
Apart from its various health benefits , neem also has immense benefits for your skin as well as hair. Whether it is pimples, annoying blackheads,fine lines, dandruff,hairfall– look no further, neem can get rid of all these and more.
