Ugadi 2023: Everything you need to know about this popular south Indian festival

Ugadi is another festival that marks the New Year, which is predominantly celebrated in the southern states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. It is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month according to the Hindu calendar and typically falls during the months of March or April. This year the festival will be celebrated today, 22nd March. The festival represents new beginnings, prosperity, and the triumph of 'good over evil'.

The term 'Ugadi', also known as 'Yugadi', is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Yuga' and 'Adi' which means the beginning of a 'new age'.

To celebrate this day, devotees decorate their homes with mango leaves, draw rangoli near their front doors, buy new clothes and distribute food and clothes to poor people. People also prepare a variety of traditional dishes like Ugadi Pachadi (chutney), Pulihora (lemon rice), Bobbatlu, Bevu Bella, and more. This day is also celebrated as 'Gudi Padwa' in Maharashtra and 'Yugadi' in Karnataka. The festival is celebrated with great devotion and fervor in South India.


Significance of Ugadi

The day is celebrated because devotees believe that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. For this very reason, the day is considered to be one of the most auspicious days of the year. Ugadi also marks the onset of spring, which symbolizes renewal, growth, and prosperity.

People offer prayers in the temple and consume need leaves on this auspicious day. In some places, devotees also prepare a paste of neem leaves mixed with jaggery, coriander seeds, and tamarind.

According to ancient texts, consuming neem purifies blood function and increases immunity to fight against diseases. Apart from neem, green chili, and pepper also help us to keep our temper under control.

Traditional oil bath

Another tradition practice on the day is to take an oil bath. Many hold the belief that Goddess Lakshmi is present in the oil and Goddess Ganga is present in the water on the day. Devotees seek the blessings of both the goddesses on the day.

Popular 'Ugadi' food

The most famous food item consumed in states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is 'Ugadi Pachadi', as the elements of the food is believed to bring people good luck and prosperity for the new year. This drink consists of all 6 tastes, namely sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent, symbolizing the different life experiences.

Every region has its own traditional dishes. In Karnataka, people prepare 'Bevu Bella', which is quite popular among the locals. A mixture of neem leaves and jaggery is eaten by people on this occasion.

If you want to experience the traditions and foods of South India, visit the places on Ugadi. One can experience the vibrancy of such festivals with near ones on this day.