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Chaitra is the first month of the Hindu calendar and the very first day of this
month begins the new year in Maharashtra, Andhra and parts of Karnataka. This
festival is called Gudi Padva or Ugadi. The people of these states follow the
ShaUvahan Shaka, one of the two eras used in the lunar calendar (see Chapter
2). Gudi means a banner raised to announce virtorv rind inv rind r)adva is the
first dav of a vicrory ana joy ana paava is me rirsr aay or a lunar month. The
victory banner in Maharashtrian homes is made with a wooden or metal pole at
the top of which stands an upturned metal water pot. The pot is edged with gathers
of silken cloth, garlands of marigold and new mango leaves. The gudi is raised
at the entrance of a house and is reminiscent of the valiant Marathas returning
home from their successful conquering expeditions of war. This auspicious day
also means good eating. Melons, jackfruit, mangoes, sprouted gram and a variety
of sherbets such as mango panha, are served.
Since GudiPadvais considered one of the four most auspicious days in the year,
people start new ventures on this day. It is believed that Brahma created the
world on this day-hence he is worshipped specially at this time. Vishnu is also
said to have been incarnated as Matsva. the fish, on this dav.
[Below] To markRamnavami, devotees wear the Ram-na shawls over their shoulders
and recite the story of the Ramayana.
[Bottom] Jain temples are marked by the wealth and beauty of their intricate
carving and architecture. Lectures on the teachings of the Jain religious thinkers
are arranged by derasars to mark Mahavir Jayanti.
