Gudi Padwa signifies the arrival of the spring season. It is made up of two words, "Gudi" means flag or emblem of Lord Brahma, and Padwa means the 1st day of the phase of the moon. Celebrated on the 1st day of Hindu calendar month Chaitra.
The festival is celebrated by Marathi and Konkani Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, On this day Lord Brahma created the Universe and then created the concepts of days, weeks, months, and years.
As per one belief, the festival also symbolizes Lord Rama's victory over evil power Ravana. It also commemorates the event of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.
Gudi is a flag hoisted using a long bamboo and a bright colorful silk scarf. A scarf covered the bamboo and neem and mango leaves, and a garland of flowers is used to decorate. Inside an inverted vessel made up of silver/copper, the bamboo shoot is covered. It signifies the victory of good over evil.
On this day people take an oil bath, then they wear new clothes, then prepare the Gudi and do the puja. All the houses are decorated and they make Rangolis. After Pooja prasad is distributed to all.
It is believed that by doing pooja, households save from all types of evils and ward off negative energies.
Some delightful cuisines are prepared on this day, like Puran Poli, Coconut Ladoo, Kesari Bhaat, Kaju Modak, Banana Sheera, Sweet Shakarpare, etc.
21 days Lockdown in india may have to be extended: PM Narendra Modi to opposition.