Vedic calendar
Gudi Padwa 2026
The Marathi New Year, on the first day of the bright half of Chaitra.
Thursday, 19 March 2026 in New Delhi
Chaitra Shukla Pratipada: 06:54 on Thursday, 19 March 2026 to 04:53 on Friday, 20 March 2026 (India time)
| New Delhi | Thu, 19 Mar 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| London | Thu, 19 Mar 2026 | |
| New York | Thu, 19 Mar 2026 | |
| Sydney | Fri, 20 Mar 2026 |
Please verify: The tithi does not cover the usual observance time on any day.
What it is
Gudi Padwa falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada and marks the New Year in Maharashtra and Goa. A gudi is raised at the door or window: a bamboo staff with a bright cloth, neem and mango leaves, a garland of sugar crystals and an upturned pot.
Traditional significance
The gudi is a flag of victory and welcome. Eating neem leaves with jaggery is a reminder that a year holds both bitter and sweet, and that both can be received with grace.
History and culture
Many traditions link the day with the creation of the world by Brahma and with the victories of Rama and of the Shalivahana kings, whose calendar era begins today.
A suggested practice
Bitter and sweet · about 5 minutes
- Write one bitter lesson from the past year.
- Beside it, write one sweet gift that came from it.
- Set one simple intention for the new year.
Affirmation
I welcome the new year with courage and gratitude.
Reflection question
What would I like this year to be remembered for?
Continue on Inner Balance by Praseeth
Share
Astrological and traditional meanings are offered for reflection and cultural understanding. They are symbolic, not scientific predictions, and never a substitute for medical, legal or financial advice.