What Is Ugadi, Why, And How Is It Celebrated? All You Need To Know

by Mallika Khurana
What Is Ugadi, Why, And How Is It Celebrated? All You Need To Know

One of the well-known Hindu holidays, Ugadi is observed with much grandeur and ceremony. The Telugu and Kannada people celebrate Ugadi as their New Year. Hindus are not the only ones that celebrate it; Sindhis and Maharashtrians also celebrate this auspicious day with much fervour.

A Pompous Celebration Of Ugadi

Ugadi
Photo Credits: Canva

Every year in April, the Ugadi celebration takes place in Southern India. All residents of the states come together on this day to celebrate and have a great time with their loved ones. The intention behind the celebration states that if the first day of the new year is spent joyfully, happiness will continue to prevail for the remainder of the year. To make the most of the first day of the year, a big celebration is planned.

In several states, the celebration goes by different names. It is referred to as “Ugadi” by the inhabitants of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, “Gudi Padwa” by the inhabitants of Maharashtra, and “Cheti Chand” by the Sindhis. Every state celebrates this occasion in their own different way.

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A Festival Full Of Flavourful Treats

Celebration of Ugadi
Photo Credits: Canva

The celebration of Ugadi is incomplete with Ugadi Pachadi. It is a special and popular dish that is made using raw bananas, raw mango, neem, tamarind, and jaggery. This food is only consumed once it is offered to the gods, according to popular belief. The use of raw mango practically acts as a forerunner to mangoes, which are the most cherished aspect of Indian summers. The dish’s inclusion of tender neem blossoms, which act as an antibiotic and a digestive cleanser, is essential to cope with the impending summer heat.

Another popular dish among those celebrating this holiday is Pulihora.  It is made from cooked rice, besan, urad dal, cashew nuts, and peanuts. In order to enhance the perfection of the Ugadi special meal, the recipe for bobbatlu calls for maida, semolina, Bengal gramme, grated coconut, and grated jaggery.

This year, enjoy the Ugadi celebration with all of your loved ones!

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva