“Ugadi” is the name given to the Hindu New Year by the peoples of the Deccan Plateau, which covers most of central and southern
India. In other parts of the country different names are given to the same day, such as "Barhaspatyamana", "Sauramana", “Cheti Chand” or "Chandramana", to name but a few.
Not only is Ugadi celebrated as the Hindu New Year, but it is also auspicious for a number of other reasons. It is believed that Lord Brahma began creation on this day; it is the day that Krishna died in 3101 BC, marking the end of the Dvapara and beginning of the Kali era and finally the legendary hero Salivahana founded his empire on this day in 78 AD.
People traditionally celebrate the
festival by waking up before the break of dawn, applying coconut oil to their bodies and taking a head bath. They then decorate the entrances to their homes with fresh mango leaves in commemoration of the gods Kartik and Ganesha, the two sons of Lord Siva and Parvathi, who were both very fond of the fruit.
Food plays a prominent role in Ugadi and the six tastes have symbolic significance; neem buds and flowers for bitterness, raw mango for tanginess, tamarind juice for sourness, green chilli or pepper for heat, jaggery for sweetness and a pinch of salt for saltiness. These basic flavours represent life’s fundamental experiences which should be accepted with equanimity. They are sadness, happiness, anger, fear, disgust and surprise.
Later in the day predictions are made for the coming year and people gather at temples or town squares to hear this Panchanga Sravanam, The
occasion is an informal one where a well respected elderly person, often a priest or scholar, recites the almanac and blesses everyone present. These days it is common for people, particularly in large cities, to watch this ceremony on televisions.
Ugadi promotes other forms of culture too. Kavi Sammelanam, or poetry recitation, is common and many poets come up with new poems, written on a wide variety of subjects. Literary discussions are popular and authors are recognised for their writing skills with award ceremonies. Carnatic music, dancing and general revelry take place in the evenings and the air is filled with joy, enthusiasm and gaiety. Some people may prefer to enjoy a tranquil evening of devotional songs known as bhajans.
Ugadi is clearly a festival with many aspects. With roots going back to the mists of time, it ushers in a New Year, reminds people of how best to approach life’s ups and downs and provides an occasion to express oneself creatively while generally filling the hearts of people with joy and contentment.