Ugadi... Our New Year
Ugadi... Our New Year
India is country with its own uniqueness. If the whole world welcomes the New Year on one day, India celebrates it in different intervals of an year. In South India [Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh], Ugadi is also known as Gudipadava.
The name Ugadi originates from Yugadi, meaning the beginning of a new yuga.
The celebration of Ugadi originates from the belief that, Lord Brahma created the universe on Chaitra suddha padhyami [Ugadi]. He created the days, weeks, months and years in order to count time. Another thing that makes this day special is the blooming of flowers and the birth of new crops. It is the time when the earth exhibits the beauty of nature.
Ugadi begins with reading of the Panchangam - a prediction of what the new year has in store for us. This is followed by preparation of the Vepapoota Pachadi or the neem flower pickle. This also has a significance on Ugandi. This pickle signifies that we must welcome all flavors of life with open arms. People also maintain the practice of sprinkling cow dung water in their house as it auspicious.
Ugadi is considered very auspicious to start new ventures like a new business, new job or other important activities. So if you are planning to start something new, the best time is Ugadi.
-Kruti Beesam