Gudi Padwa is predominantly celebrated in the state of Maharashtra and it marks the beginning of the harvest season. The day is celebrated as New Years Day for the people of Maharashtra, as per the Hindu calendar. The phrase “Gudi Padwa” is coined from two words, Gudi meaning Brahmas flag and Padwa, Padva or Paddava meaning the first day of the bright phase of the moon. Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the first day of the month of Chaitra as per the Hindu calendar, which usually falls between March and April.
There are many stories and mythological legends related to Gudi Padwa. In Brahma Purana, one of the sacred Hindu scriptures, its mentioned that Lord Brahma recreated the world after a natural calamity killed all the people and stopped time. On the day of Gudi Padwa, following Brahmas efforts, time restarted, and the era of justice and truth began. For this reason, Lord Brahma is worshipped on this day. Another story says that Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Laxman after living 14 years in exile. The day celebrates Lord Ramas victory over Ravana. Hence, Gudi or Brahmas flag is hoisted in households like how it was hoisted in Ayodhya as a victory flag after Rama defeated Ravana.
As the festival primarily welcomes a new year, people clean their houses and courtyards on this day to keep everything neat and tidy. A customary oil-bath is a must for everyone on this day. Women decorate their homes with Rangolis of different patterns and colours. Wearing new clothes, especially kurta-pajamas and traditional sarees is an important part of this day. The most important part of the festival is the hoisting of Gudi. After the Gudi is hoisted, people form a human pyramid to reach the Gudi and break the coconut thats inside this.