Traveller’s diary: This spring, bask in the festivities of Gudi Padwa & Azerbaijan's Novruz Bayram

The flowers are blooming, temperature is rising & festivities are calling.

GUDI PADWA / UGADI
Where: Maharashtra & Karnataka / Andhra Pradesh
When: March 25, 2020

In the warmer days this month, the festival of Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on March 25 in Maharashtra. On the same day, Ugadi is marked by the people of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Traditional festival of Gudi Padwa is also termed as the Marathi New Year. On Gudi Padwa, many people dress up in traditional garb and participate in processions on the streets. Festivities are incomplete with out the food and preparations of Shrikhand, Sabudana khichdi and vada, Aam panna, Batatyachi Bhaaji, Chana Usal, Thalipeeth are also made. Greetings are exchanged and the new year beginnings are marked with prayers with the entire family.

WITNESS NOVRUZ TRADITIONAL CELEBRATIONS IN THE SPRING OF 2020 AMIDST DANCE AND FESTIVITIES
Where: Azerbaijan
When: March 20, 2020

Azerbaijan is gearing up for spring with its most lively celebration of the new season. As the country’s most cherished holiday, Novruz Bayram marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the astronomical New Year. Say farewell to the old year and celebrate new beginnings as you witness nature come alive.

The Novruz festival in Azerbaijan is sure to leave one amazed with a plethora of events and festivities to make an unforgettable experience. Dance, feast and prepare for the physical and spiritual renewal that the spring season brings.

Get the most out of your spring escapade by experiencing these vibrant cultural highlights in Azerbaijan:

Learn of our ties to fire: Azerbaijan has several ties to fire and ancient Zoroastrian history. Join the exciting rituals and jump over a bonfire to leave your troubles behind and purify your soul going into the new year. After sunset, dance around a bonfire to celebrate with family and friends.

Savour the sweets from the khoncha (xonça): Treat yourself to the delicious sweets from a khoncha (xonça), one of the essential parts of Novruz. The beautifully decorated tray, with samani (green sprouting wheat) placed in the center, is filled with nuts.