Gudi Padwa 2026: Date, significance, rituals, and more
Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year, lands on March 19, 2026.
If you're up early, the best time for the puja is between 6:26am and noon (New Delhi time).
This festival isn't just about a new calendar: it's packed with traditions that blend history and mythology.
Rituals to be performed on the day
The day starts with an oil bath and eating bitter neem leaves, said to bring good health.
People clean their homes, make colorful rangolis, and draw swastikas for luck.
The highlight is hoisting a Gudi (a decorated bamboo stick topped with an upside-down copper pot) outside the house; it's all about celebrating victory, fresh beginnings, and light over darkness.
Significance of the day
Beyond rituals, Gudi Padwa marks big moments, like Lord Brahma creating the universe, Lord Rama returning to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's victories.
For many in Maharashtra, it's a day that blends pride in heritage with hope for what's ahead.