Have you ever heard about Gudi Padwa? We usually hear about these festivals in the corporate world or through social media, but the in-depth details of the festival are generally unseen. 

Let’s know what and how Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra is celebrated in this blog. Explore the unique festivity celebrated on a large scale in the spring season.  

If you’re curious to know and experience Gudi Padwa, then after reading this blog, plan a Mumbai Tour with a trusted travel agency in India.  

Scroll down to learn more about Gudi Padwa 2026 - the Lunisolar New Year. 

What is Gudi Padwa? 

A springtime Marathi festival, Gudi Padwa, marks the commencement of new beginnings for Marathi Hindus. Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra is celebrated on 19th March, 2026, when a grand celebration takes place in the region. Indians also refer to this festival as Ugadi in some parts of the country. Gudi means “a flag or emblem of the Hindu Lord Brahma”, and Padwa means “the first day of the phase of the moon.”  

Gudi Padwa History & Significance 

Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra History is rooted in Hindu mythology, where it is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. The day symbolizes the beginning of a new cosmic cycle. One of the most popular beliefs linked with the Gudi Padwa festival is the return of Ram to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, as per the Ramayana.  

Moreover, the historical chapters reveal that the Gudi Padwa significance in Maharashtra is linked to the victories of the Maratha warriors. Therefore, Gudi represents the victory flag raised to celebrate the triumph in battles. There’s a completely new vibe during the Gudi Padwa celebration in Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai, Thane, Dombivli, Pune, Nashik, etc. 

Gudi Padwa 2026 Dates 

The Gudi Padwa 2026 Maharashtra Date is Thursday, March 19th, 2026, when the entire state comes together for a grand celebration of new beginnings, prosperity, and cultural heritage. 

Gudi Padwa Pooja Muhurat 2026 

Indians usually believe in doing every auspicious pooja at the right time, it is important to consider the Gudi Padwa Pooja Muhurat, which is: 

• Morning Muhurat - 6:26 AM to 12:00 PM 
• Pratipada Tithi Starts – 6:52 AM on March 19th, 2026 
• Pratipada Tithi Ends - 4:52 AM on March 20th, 2026 

Sacred Muhurat – As per the Hindu Calendar, Sade Teen Muhurat is one of the most auspicious times of the year. The Gudi Padwa Date 19th March, 2026, is a highly sacred occasion when all new beginnings can be started. 

Traditions of Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra 

Gudi Padwa is observed in various types of ancient rituals that have been passed on for generations. Here are some of the main traditional rituals followed by locals: 

• Gudi Hoisting - The symbolic attraction of this festival is the hoisting of the Gudi outside the houses. A long bamboo stick wrapped with a vibrant silk cloth (saffron, yellow, or green) is filled with neem leaves, mango leaves and a floral garland. It is usually hoisted as a mark of respect at the entrance or on the roof of the house.  
• Rangoli Design Making – Women usually begin their day by making beautiful rangoli patterns at the entrance of their homes using flowers or colored powder and rice flour. This ritual symbolises prosperity, bliss, and vibrant spirit. 
• Special Priests and Rituals – It is highly suggested by priests that one should begin the day of Gudi Padwa with an auspicious oil bath, which purifies the soul. Women wear nauvarl saree, and men wear a kurta pyjama. The festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Lakshmi, so locals visit temples to offer prayers. 
• Festive Feast – Post pooja, the family prepares authentic Gudi Padwa Food in Maharashtra.  Dishes like puran poli, Kothimbir Vadi, Shrikhand, etc., are prepared at home, and that’s how the celebration goes on. 
• Community procession – Mumbai and other cities of Maharashtra enjoy the festival to the fullest. The grand community processions in the cities feature folk dance, music, and road performances. 

Gudi Padwa Special Food 

When we talk about Indian festivals, the special food items are always prepared as a ritual. And the same goes for Gudi Padwa food, which is a must-try on the day of the festival. Here are some of the festive special foods that you can miss: 

• Sweets: Festive celebrations are always incomplete without trying the delicious sweets, so don’t miss these Gudi Padwa sweets -  
• Puran Poli – a popular Maharashtrian delight, Puran Poli has a delicious filling of cooked chana dal, jaggery, and spices. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat enjoyed by locals 
• Shrikhand - the most delicious creamy dessert, Shrikhand holds a special place in the Gudi Padwa celebration. Maharashtrians enjoy it the most as it is served chilled and rich in flavors. 

Savory Delights: The most authentic Gudi Padwa dishes will leave you drooling over their rich flavors. 

• Poori with Batata Bhaji – the most cooked local food at the festival is Poori with Batata Bhaji, which is quick to prepare. 
• Kothimbir Vadi – a popular savoury Maharastrian snack, Kothimbir Vadi is the most favorite dish of the festival. 
• Sabudhana Vada – an ideal Gudi Padwa savoury snack is Sabudana vada featuring crispy, deep-fried patties made from overnight soaked sabudana. 

Festive Special Drinks: Among the Gudi Padwa Special Food, there’s one drink that local families make with rich flavors, and that is -  

• Aam Panna – a refreshing and tangy mango drink, is popularly brewed during the festival. It is made of raw mango pulp with sugar and spices. 

Experience Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra with Next Holidays 

The traditional festivals of India are worth experiencing, and if you’ve never been to Mumbai, then it’s time. Plan your Mumbai tour in March with Next Holidays, a trusted travel agency in India, providing an immersive experience during the festive season. A personal interactive session with a local family can be organised to make your journey a lifetime experience.