Gudi Padwa, which marks the Marathi New Year, will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The festival falls on the Pratipada tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra and is considered an auspicious occasion symbolizing new beginnings, prosperity and renewal.
According to the festival timings, the Pratipada tithi begins at 6:52 a.m. on March 19 and ends at 4:52 a.m. on March 20.
The most auspicious time for Gudi puja is from 6:53 a.m. to 7:57 a.m.
Other key timings for the day are as follows:
Brahma Muhurat: 5:08 a.m. to 5:56 a.m.
Pratah Sandhya: 5:32 a.m. to 6:44 a.m.
Abhijit Muhurat: 12:22 p.m. to 1:11 p.m.
Vijaya Muhurat: 2:47 p.m. to 3:36 p.m.
Gudi Padwa is celebrated as a symbol of victory, prosperity and fresh beginnings. The gudi, or ceremonial flag, is traditionally hoisted outside homes. It is usually prepared using a bamboo stick draped with a bright silk cloth, decorated with neem and mango leaves, and topped with a metal pot.
It is considered ideal to place the gudi in the southeast direction or at an elevated spot such as a window or entrance so that it remains visible and is believed to invite positive energy into the home.
The festival is marked by vibrant cultural traditions. Homes are cleaned and decorated, rangoli is drawn at entrances, and families gather to celebrate the day. Traditional dishes such as puran poli and shrikhand are commonly prepared. A customary ritual of consuming neem and jaggery symbolizes the acceptance of both bitter and sweet experiences in life.
In different parts of India, the festival is also observed as Ugadi, though the spirit of celebration remains similar.
The day also marks the beginning of Chaitra Navratri, which culminates in Ram Navami, adding to its spiritual significance. More than a ritual observance, Gudi Padwa represents a fresh start and an opportunity to welcome the new year with hope, tradition and positivity.
