Maharashtra witnessed a significant surge in vehicle registrations on the occasion of Gudi Padwa 2025, with a total of 86,814 vehicles registered across the state, marking a 30% increase compared to the previous year, officials reported on Sunday. This spike in registrations encompasses a variety of vehicles, including two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and other categories. Among the busiest Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in Maharashtra, Mumbai Central has emerged as one of the top five areas with the highest rise in vehicle registrations. The recent surge in registrations over the past week, coinciding with the Gudi Padwa celebrations, highlights the growing demand for newly purchased vehicles in the state. The increase in vehicle registrations is a noteworthy trend for 2025, reflecting a notable uptick compared to the previous year.
Gudi Padwa the vibrant festival celebrated across Maharashtra, marks the beginning of the lunisolar new year for Marathi and Konkani Hindus. Observed with great enthusiasm, this spring festival symbolizes new beginnings and the start of the harvest season. This year, Gudi Padwa falls on March 30. To celebrate, people adorn their homes with decorations, dress in festive attire, and embrace the spirit of renewal.
Gudi Padwa has different mythological stories associated to it. According to some, it marks the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. To honour Lord Rama’s victory, the people of Ayodhya are said to have raised decorated flags, or “Gudis," to welcome him. These Gudis have become a symbol of triumph, prosperity, and the victory of good over evil. The Gudi, symbolising good fortune, is an essential part of the festival and is raised to invoke blessings for the upcoming year.
Gudi Padwa celebrations begin early in the morning. One of the most prominent customs is the raising of the Gudi, a bamboo pole decorated with a bright cloth (usually orange or yellow), a copper or silver pot, and mango leaves. This Gudi is hoisted outside homes to signify victory and prosperity. Gudi Padwa Puja is done to seek blessings for health, wealth, and happiness. Traditional sweets like puran poli and shrikhand are prepared on this occassion. A mixture of neem leaves, tamarind, jaggery, and salt is also consumed on this day, which signifies the balance of life’s sweetness and bitterness. In many regions, processions and cultural performances are organised, with dancing, singing, and feasting.