Gudi Padwa 2026: Date, Muhurat & Maharashtra New Year

Gudi Padwa 2026 falls on Sunday, March 29, coinciding with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. This day marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year according to the lunisolar calendar and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra, Goa, and Konkan regions.

The auspicious muhurat for Gudi hoisting is during the early morning hours, typically between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. The Gudi (a decorated pole with silk cloth, neem leaves, garland, and an inverted copper or silver vessel) is hoisted at the entrance of homes.

Gudi Padwa celebrates Lord Brahma creation of the universe and Lord Ram return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. It is also considered one of the three-and-a-half most auspicious days (Sade Teen Muhurat) in Hindu calendar.

Traditional celebrations include preparing Shrikhand-Puri, distributing neem and jaggery mixture (symbolizing life bittersweet nature), wearing new clothes, and decorating homes with mango leaf torans.