India is quite popular for its cultural and religious values and celebrates various festivals throughout the year. One such festival is Gudi Padwa! It is the traditional new year of Maharashtrians and Konkanis which is being celebrated today. Just as January 1 is important to the English civilization across the world, this day holds significance in Hindu culture.
According to the Hindu mythology, it is said that Lord Brahma had created the universe on the day of Gudi Padwa. It is also said Brahma introduced days, weeks, months and years on this day. The same festival is celebrated as Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka.
No festival is complete without the festive mood. Every year, people celebrate this festive day with great enthusiasm but Gudi Padwa in 2020 is a very different and low-key affair compared to the previous years. First time in the history of India, people in many states of the country couldn’t make a grand celebration.
This year the celebration is limited to homes due to coronavirus outbreak in the country. The country is witnessing 21 days’ lockdown to win the battle against the novel coronavirus. No Procession, no social events, no music, no dhol, no decorations!
Several Gudi Padwa processions have been called off to control the spread of coronavirus.
The government has asked people to stay indoors and maintain social distancing to ensure that COVID-19 does not spread out and kill more people. Hence in this critical situation, let’s celebrate Gudi Padwa in the comfort of our homes with our families. We can still send our best wishes to our loved ones over the phone by sending messages or by making phone calls. May the festival bring happiness, contentment, good health and prosperity to all.
