The Maharashtrian festival Gudi Padwa 2010.
A Gudi is a bright green or yellow cloth adorned with brocade, tied to the tip of a long bamboo over which sugar crystals, neem leaves, a twig of mango leaves and a garland of red flowers is tied. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it. This gudi is then hoisted outside the house, in a window, terrace or a high place so that everybody can see it. Gudi Padwa ushers in the New Year, marking the begining of spring, when the crops have been harvested and start getting to the market. It is the Maharashtrian version of Lohri! It is believed that the sun’s rays increase in intensity from mellow to hot.
In traditional Maharashtrian homes, the day begins by eating the bitter sweet leaves of the neem tree, as a blood purifying and immune building process. Traditional Maharashtrian sweets are served including the popular “modak”.
On Gudi Padwa the gudi is hung outside windows or prominently displayed at home. It is bright yellow or green cloth adorned with brocade and tied to he tip of a long bamboo, over which sugar crystals, neem leaves, a twig of mango leaves and a garland of flowers is tied. An inverted silver or copper pot is placed over it.
The day is considered auspicious for beginning new ventures and acquiring assets etc. A great day for sales people!
