Ugadi is the New Year festival celebrated in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. It marks the beginning of the Chaitra month in the Hindu lunar calendar and usually falls in March or April.
Ugadi signifies the start of a new era and is believed to be the day when Lord Brahma began creating the universe. It is an important festival for Hindus, especially for people following the Panchanga (Hindu almanac).
Panchanga Shravanam – Listening to the predictions for the new year by scholars.
Abhyanga Snana – Taking a ritual oil bath early in the morning.
Temple Visits – Seeking blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
Ugadi Pachadi – A special dish made with six tastes:
Jaggery (sweet) – Happiness
Neem flowers (bitter) – Challenges
Tamarind (sour) – Surprises
Raw mango (tangy) – Growth
Chili (spicy) – Anger
Salt (salty) – Life’s balance
This symbolizes that life is a mixture of different emotions.
Gudi Padwa – In Maharashtra
Chaitra Navratri – In North India
Navreh – In Kashmir
Cheti Chand – Sindhi New Year
| Category | Festivals |
| month | Chaitra |
| paksha | Shukla |
| tithi | Pratipada |
| Nakshatra | |
| yogha |
