Ugadi (also called Yugadi) marks the Hindu New Year for the people of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. The word Yugadi comes from Sanskrit: Yuga = age and Adi = beginning. Meaning: “The beginning of a new age.” It usually falls in March or April, on the first day of the Chaitra month (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada).
Significance of Ugadi
❀ Ugadi, it marks the beginning of the new lunar calendar year.
❀ Considered the day when Brahma created the universe (as per Hindu belief).
❀ A time for new beginnings, positivity, and spiritual renewal.
Rituals & Traditions of Ugadi
❀ Abhyanga Snanam – Sacred oil bath in the morning.
❀ Decorating homes with mango leaves (Torana) and rangoli.
❀ Panchanga Shravanam – Listening to the new year’s astrological predictions.
❀ Visiting temples and offering special prayers.
❀ Special Dish – Ugadi Pachadi, Ugadi Pachadi - A unique chutney made with six ingredients representing the six tastes of life:
1. Neem (bitterness)
2. Jaggery (sweetness)
3. Tamarind (sourness)
4. Raw mango (tanginess)
5. Green chili (spice)
6. Salt
It symbolizes that life is a mix of joy, sorrow, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise.
Regional Names of Ugadi
❀ Ugadi / Yugadi – Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka
❀ Gudi Padwa – Maharashtra
❀ Cheti Chand – Sindhi community
| Related Name | Yugadi |
| Begins Tithi | Chaitra Shukla Pratipada |
| Reason | Hindu New Year |
Updated: Feb 16, 2026 12:56 PM