Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the first day of the month of Chaitra as per the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which usually falls between March and April. It marks the beginning of the harvest season. The day is celebrated as New Year’s Day for the people of Maharashtra, as per the lunisolar Hindu calendar. The phrase “Gudi Padwa” is coined from two words—Gudi meaning Brahma’s flag and Padwa, Padva or Paddava meaning the first day of the bright phase of the moon.
Check out the importance of raising a Gudi:
Gudi symbolizes the Brahmadhvaj mentioned in the Brahma Purana, because Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. It may also represent Indradhvaj.
The Gudi symbolises Lord Rama’s victory and happiness on returning to Ayodhya after slaying Ravana. It is believed that this festival is celebrated to commemorate the coronation of Rama post his return to Ayodhya after completing 14 years in exile. So people celebrated the victory of lord Rama every year by raising the Gudi. Gudi is a symbol of victory of lord Rama.
It symbolizes the victory of King Shalivahana and was hoisted by his people when he returned to Paithan.
Gudhi is believed to ward off evil, invite prosperity and good luck into the house.