Gudi Padwa 2026: Date, Muhurat And Correct Way To Hoist Gudi

The Marathi New Year begins on March 19, marking an auspicious start with rituals, prayers and the symbolic hoisting of the Gudi.

Gudi Padwa, one of the most important festivals in Maharashtra, marks the beginning of the Marathi New Year as well as the Hindu New Year. Celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm, the day signifies new beginnings, prosperity and victory.

When Is Gudi Padwa In 2026

In 2026, Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19. The festival falls on the Pratipada tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra.

The Pratipada begins at 6:52 AM on March 19 and ends at 4:52 AM on March 20, making March 19 the day of celebration based on the Udaya Tithi.

Auspicious Muhurat Timings

The most favourable time for Gudi Padwa rituals is between 6:53 AM and 7:57 AM.

Other important timings of the day include:
Brahma Muhurat: 05:08 AM to 05:56 AM
Pratah Sandhya: 05:32 AM to 06:44 AM
Abhijit Muhurat: 12:22 PM to 01:11 PM
Vijaya Muhurat: 02:47 PM to 03:36 PM

Significance Of Gudi Padwa

The word ‘Gudi’ represents a flag or symbol of victory. On this day, people hoist a decorated Gudi outside their homes, which is believed to bring prosperity, positivity and success throughout the year.

The festival also marks the beginning of Vikram Samvat and is celebrated as Ugadi in southern states like Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Correct Way To Hoist The Gudi

The Gudi should ideally be placed at the entrance of the house or at a high point. The southeast direction (Agni Kona) is considered the most auspicious for hoisting it.

Traditionally, a bright cloth (often red or yellow) is tied to a bamboo stick along with neem leaves, mango leaves, a garland and an inverted pot on top, symbolising victory and divine blessings.

Rituals To Follow On This Day

Devotees begin the day with an early morning bath during Brahma Muhurat and clean their homes. New clothes are worn, and special prayers are offered.

Traditional dishes like puran poli, shrikhand, sabudana kheer and puri-chana are prepared as offerings. Donating as per one’s capacity is also considered auspicious.

What Not To Do On Gudi Padwa

People are advised to avoid negativity, anger and disrespectful behaviour on this day. Consumption of tamasic foods such as onion, garlic, meat and alcohol is generally avoided as part of traditional practices.

Gudi Padwa is not just a festival but a spiritual beginning that symbolises hope, renewal and the triumph of good over evil.