Ugadi in 2024
Ugadi is a festival marking the first day of the new year according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar (also called Panchanga). This festival is held in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and Goa. The first day of the Hindu calendar month of Chaitra usually happens in the months of March or April of the Gregorian calendar. In 2024, Ugadi happens on 9 April (Tuesday).
The same day is also celebrated by Hindus in the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, in a holiday called Gudi Padwa to celebrate the new year.
Ugadi Festival full Form
The word “Ugadi” is a mixture of two words — “Yuga” (age) and “Adi” (beginning). An auspicious event, the day is celebrated with much pomp and gusto. People from every part of the society enjoy the day by wearing new clothes and gorging on delicious delicacies. Prayers are offered in temples to welcome the new year while people clean their homes and decorate them with Rangolis—a traditional way to decorate floors by creating different patterns with coloured rice or flower petals.
A Bit about the History of Ugadi
As per Hindu mythology, it was on this day that Lord Brahma created the world. He then went on to make days, weeks, months, and years. So, Ugadi is thought to be the first day of the creation of the universe.
Importance of Ugadi
The following are the meaning of Ugadi:
The name Ugadi derived from the word Yugadi. Primarily, the term Yugadi is the combination of two great words: Yuga, which means age or time; and Adi, which means the beginning of something. Therefore, Ugadi literally means the beginning of New Year. The festival holds a greater amount of significance for people who celebrate this festival to recognize the work of Lord Brahma. The Lord is entrusted to be the creator of ages and is adulated on the day of the holiday.
How is Ugadi Celebrated?
The following are the facts as how Ugadi is celebrated:
The celebration actually starts one week before the day of Ugadi.
People start cleaning and decorating their various homes.
Most house entrances are covered with colourful Rangoli patterns because it’s believed that the new year will be as bright and colourful like the various colours of Rangoli.
People generally wake up before sunrise, take a customary oil-bath, and wear new clothes.
Mango leaves are put at the entrances of temples, homes, and shops.
New business ventures and inauguration of shops and malls are popular on this day as Ugadi is considered a prosperous day to start something new.
Special delicacies are prepared to enjoy the event, including Pachhadi, a type of chutney that’s prepared by incorporating six different flavours.
It’s made by adding neem flowers, chilli powder, tamarind, mango, jaggery, and salt.
All the ingredients used shows the various facets of life.
Pachhadi is a customary dish that’s made in most households.
Other than Pachhadi, dishes like Holige and Puliogure are also made, especially in the state of Karnataka.
Another important element of the festival is listening to Panchanga —the forecast of the coming year as told by priests, astrologers, or older members of the family.
Other than these, cultural events are planned across states.
Traditional customs like exchanging gifts among family members and relatives are also popular.
Ugadi means leaving the past and embracing the beginning of a new phase in life with a positive frame of mind. A joyous holiday, Ugadi is looked up by the people as a harbinger of peace, happiness, and prosperity.
Best Ways to Celebrate Ugadi
Did you know? You can make greeting cards on the occasion of the festival yourself. Women create attractive rangolis in front of their houses. It is one of the most important features of the festival. Many people prefer getting something expensive and pray for prosperity. The day notes the commencement of something new. For instance, the day on which Yugadi is celebrated is also viewed as the best day for constructing a new house or buying a property.
FAQs on Ugadi in 2024
What does Ugadi mean?
Ugadi means the beginning of the new age. Here, yuga means age and adi means starts.
What are the different places where Ugadi is celebrated?
Ugadi is held in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
When is Ugadi marked in 2024?
In 2024, Ugadi is held on 9 April.
When is Ugadi marked in 2025?
In 2025, Ugadi is held on 30 March.
Is there a bank holiday in Ugadi 2024?
Yes, banks stay closed on Tuesday, 9 April 2024 on the ocassion of Ugadi.
Which God holiday is Ugadi?
Lord Brahma is honored in Ugadi along with other deities, such as Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Mata Parvati, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ram.
What is Chandramana Ugadi?
The festival is also known as Chandrama Ugadi which comes in the months of March and April as per the Gregorian Calendar. According to the Hindu Lunar calendar, Chadrama Ugadi marks the beginning of the New Year.
