New Delhi | Jagran Lifestyle Desk: Ugadi is south Indian festival mainly celebrated in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka to mark the beginning of a new year. The festival is observed on the first day of the Chaitra month as per Hindu calendar and typically falls in the month of March or April as Gregorian calendar. This year Ugadi is being observed on March 25.
The day is observed by drawing rangoli, decorating the house with mango leaves, buying new clothes, giving food or clothes to the poor, special oil bath, preparing delicacies like pachadi and visiting a temple. Some people even draw floral designs on the front of their house. The festival is celebrated with zeal and social merriment. The day is also observed as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra. The festival is also celebrated as Yugadi in Karnataka.
Also Read: Happy Ugadi 2020: Wishes, quotes, SMS, and WhatsApp messages to share on this day
Ugadi History and Significance
Ugadi or Yugadi word is derived from yuga (age) and adi (beginning of a new age). It falls on the first day of the lunisolar month. Preparations begin a week ago. Houses are thoroughly cleaned. People buy traditional clothes like Dhoti and buy new items.
It is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day and thus considered one of the very auspicious days of the year. Not just that, it also marks the commemoration of Chaitra Navratri, which leads up to Ram Navami, Lord Rama’s birthday, which is celebrated on Mahanavami (ninth day).
After offering prayers on this day, people consume neem leaves. In some places, devotees even prepare a paste of neem leaves mixed with coriander seeds, tamarind, and jaggery. As per beliefs, consuming the neem purifies our flood and increases our immunity to fight diseases. Apart from neem, green chilli/pepper is consumed to keep anger in control.