1. Gudi Padwa is the Hindu New Year in Maharashtra, called as Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. In Mumbai region celebrated the traditional way publicly in Thane near Mumbai and Girgaum in the heart of the city. This album covers celebrations in Thane. Aabhar to Santosh for sharing pictures.
2. Every year, mostly in Maharashtra, on a certain day we see poles being hung in front of the houses with a gudi. It indicates the celebration of the first day of the Hindu New Year called Gudi Padva or Dhwajaropan Day which falls on the first day of the month of Chaitra.
3. Turban and dance so colourful. In most other states the Hindu New Year comes a bit later, it is based on the calendar. Women and kids are a common site esp. women on motorcycles. Most of them are loaded with gold.
4. Gentle smiles. Gudi Padva is also called the Varsha Pratipada, Shakera or Shalivahan and marks the beginning of the New Year of the Shalivahan era.
5. Think this is Vithoba of Pandharpur. Pranams. Captions by editor.
6. Young girl with Gudi. Devotees display a long pole wrapped with a flag o cloth or silk adorned with a wreath of flowers and topped with a silver or brass Iota or vessel to which homage is paid. It is said the erection of the pole is symbolic of the banner of Indra unfurled in heaven in his honour.
7. Lady playing dol-tasha. On Gudi Padva day, it is customary to eat the bitter leaves of the Neem tree (Melis azadirachta) as it is supposed to prevent diseases during the year. This is followed by the distribution of sweets.
8. A rare man. Needless to mention that Gudi Padva or Ugadi hailing the New Year is observed by wearing new clothes and exchanging happy greetings. On this auspicious day all new enterprises are commenced with the hope that the New Year would bring prosperity and happiness to all.
9. Flag in hand, silver jewellery. Favourite dishes made during festival are Shrikhand, Puranpoli, Neem chutney, Raw Mango Dal and Kothimbir Wadi.
10. As part of celebrations there are dance performances and procession.
11. Young girls dancing.
12. Girls totally immersed in dance.
13. Palki in centre of pic.
14. Flowers and gold.
15. Ladies holding Kalash on their head. I saw this tradition in Rajasthan.
16. A bit of gymnastics.
17. Enjoying the celebrations. See the happiness in their eyes. We must thank the organisers for keeping our tradition alive. Caption matter taken from article in Bhavan’s Journal that can be read https://www.esamskriti.com/e/Culture/Festivals/Significance-of-GUDI-PADWA-1.aspx