Maharashtra celebrates Gudi Padwa today

The Marathi New Year, also called as Gudi Padwa, is being celebrated today across Maharashtra with lot of pomp and show as this festival marks the onset of 'Vasant' or the spring season.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings on Twitter saying, "Gudi Padwa wishes to all friends in Maharashtra. Praying for a phenomenal year, full of happiness and success."

The day of Gudi Padwa begins with an oil-bath and eating Neem leaves ritual followed by prayers.

Days before the festival, people start cleaning their homes and courtyards to start preparations for the actual day. On the day of the festival, people decorate their doorsteps with Rangoli.

Flowers are used for decorating the house and a toran made of mango leaves is hung across the top of the door.

On Gudi Padwa, a new pot made of silver, copper or bronze covered in auspicious red, yellow or saffron cloth is hoisted upside down at the entrance of the house. This is called the Gudi. It's a sign of prosperity and good things to come.

A procession, Shobha Yatra or Cultural Parade will also be held where people dressed in traditional attire unite and perform the lezim to entertain the audience.

This day is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya along with his consort Sita and brother Lakshama after defeating demon King Ravana in Lanka.