Ugadi 2024: Ugadi, also known as Yugadi or Samvatsarādi, heralds the beginning of the Hindu New Year in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Goa. This auspicious occasion, celebrated on the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Chaitra, signifies the start of a new cycle and is observed with joyous festivities.
Derived from Sanskrit, “Ugadi” combines the words “Uga,” meaning Course of Stars, and “Adi,” signifying Starting. It falls typically in late March or early April of the Gregorian calendar and aligns with the Tamil month of Panguni or Chithrai, often occurring on the day after Amavasya with the 27th Nakshatra Revati.
Ugadi is marked by various customs and rituals, including the drawing of colorful patterns on the floor known as Muggulu or Rangoli, decorating doors with mango leaves called torana, exchanging gifts, giving charity to the poor, and preparing a special dish called pachadi. This dish, combining all six flavors – sweet, sour, salty, bitter, astringent, and piquant – serves as a symbolic reminder of life’s varied experiences.
Additionally, preparations for Ugadi commence a week in advance, with thorough house cleaning and the purchase of new clothes. Temples are adorned with festive decorations, and special prayers are offered to invoke blessings for prosperity and well-being.
Ugadi also coincides with other Indian festivals like Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Cheti Chand for Sindhis, and Sajibu Nongma Panba for Manipuris. Hindus in Bali, Indonesia, celebrate their New Year, Nyepi, on the same day.
As Ugadi dawns, it brings with it a sense of renewal and hope, symbolizing the opportunity for new beginnings and spiritual growth. Let us join in the festivities and embrace the blessings of this auspicious day.
