Ugadi 2025 - Dates, Celebrations and Significance of the New Year Festival

Ugadi, also known as Yugadi, is the traditional New Year celebrated in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, marking the beginning of the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Derived from the Sanskrit words ‘Yuga’ (age) and ‘Adi’ (beginning), Ugadi symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and the arrival of spring. It is a day of spiritual renewal, cultural festivities, and delicious traditional delicacies, making it one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in South India.

Date and Timings of Ugadi 2025

Ugadi 2025 Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025

Pratipada Tithi Timings:
Begins: 5:57 PM on March 29, 2025
Ends: 2:19 PM on March 30, 2025

The festival is observed on the first day of Chaitra, the first month in the Hindu lunisolar calendar, coinciding with the onset of spring and new agricultural cycles.

Cleaning and Decorating Homes

People clean and decorate their homes as a gesture of inviting prosperity and positivity. Entrances are adorned with fresh mango leaves and colorful rangoli (kolam) designs. These decorations are believed to ward off negative energies

Prayers and Offerings

Devotees visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead. Special poojas (worship ceremonies) are conducted in homes and temples, accompanied by the chanting of Panchanga Shravanam, which involves reading the New Year’s horoscope.

Wearing New Clothes

People wear new traditional attire as a symbol of renewal and celebration. Women often wear elegant sarees, while men opt for dhotis or kurtas.

Panchanga Shravanam

Astrologers or family elders read the Panchangam (Hindu almanac), predicting the year’s outcomes based on planetary positions. This ritual provides spiritual and astrological guidance for the year ahead.

Ugadi Pachadi

Food is an integral part of any Indian festival, and Ugadi famously corresponds with the Ugadi Pachadi or Bevu Bella that is cooked and enjoyed by the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This "Pachadi" is famous for its delectable blend of 6 distinct but perfectly woven flavours.

• Raw mango (tangy)
• Jaggery (sweet)
• Neem flowers (bitter)
• Tamarind (sour)
• Salt (salty)
• Chillies or pepper (spicy)

Each ingredient symbolizes a different emotion or experience—joy, sorrow, anger, disgust, fear, and surprise—representing the bittersweet journey of life. Ugadi Pachadi is more than a dish; it’s a philosophical reminder to embrace all facets of life with balance and acceptance. Before the family eats, the Gods are served. The rest of the day is spent in offering prayers, visiting temples, and celebrating with friends and family. 

Feasting and Festivities

Ugadi is incomplete without a feast featuring traditional South Indian dishes. Besides Ugadi Pachadi, other delicacies like Pulihora (tamarind rice), Bobbatlu (sweet flatbread), and various chutneys and pickles are prepared and shared with loved ones.

Significance of Ugadi

The festival of Ugadi finds its mention in Hindu mythology, one related particularly to Lord Brahma. It is believed that it was on the Ugadi day that Lord Brahma began creating the Universe. Hence, Ugadi is considered to be the first day of the process of creation of the universe. Ugadi also holds immense cultural, spiritual, and social significance in South India. It is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings and is believed to bring prosperity, happiness, and success.  Ugadi also coincides with the advent of spring and the harvest season and is celebrated along with harvest and New year festivals in other parts of the country, like Punjab, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Assam and Tamil Nadu.

How is Ugadi Celebrated in Different States?

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Ugadi is celebrated with grandeur. Temples host special rituals and prayers, while cultural programs, including music and dance performances, are organized. The preparation and distribution of Ugadi Pachadi are central to the festivities.

Karnataka

In Karnataka, Ugadi is known as Yugadi and is marked by similar traditions. Families begin the day with an oil bath, wear new clothes, and perform poojas. Special dishes like Obbattu and Kosambari are enjoyed as part of the festive meals.

Maharashtra and Goa

In Maharashtra and Goa, a similar festival called Gudi Padwa is celebrated on the same day. People hoist decorated gudis (bamboo poles) outside their homes to symbolize victory and prosperity.

Astrological Significance of Ugadi

Ugadi is deeply rooted in astrological beliefs. It marks the onset of Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the waxing moon in the Chaitra month. Astrologers prepare the Panchangam for the upcoming year, predicting favorable times, challenges, and auspicious occasions. This day is also linked to the spring equinox, symbolizing renewal and growth.

Ugadi is a famous New Year festival in the three prominent states in Deccan India. While many might think it is concentrated only there, many south Indian families settled in North India celebrate this festival with as much gusto and enthusiasm. If one is ever lucky enough to travel to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh or Telangana during Ugadi, it is a must to stay and experience the most awaited festival in these states.