What is Ugadi?

Ugadi marks the beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar. Celebrated mostly in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, it is a day when mantras are chanted and predictions are made for the new year. The most important part is Panchanga Shravanam - hearing of the Panchanga. The Panchanga Shravanam is usually done at the temples by priests. Before reading out the annual forecasts as predicted in the Panchanga, the officiating priest reminds the participants of the creator, Brahma, and the span of creation of the universe.

How is it celebrated?

Preparations for the festival begin with scrubbing the house clean. People are up at dawn and take the traditional oil head bath. The traditional prayers to the Sun god follows, before accepting Vepapoota Pachadi (Neem Flower Pickle) on an empty stomach.

Kavi Sammelanam Kavi Sammelanam (poetry recitation) is a typical Ugadi feature. A literary feast for poets and public alike, many new poems written on subjects as varied as Ugadi, politics, modern trends and lifestyle are presented. Kavi Sammelanam is also a launch pad for budding poets. And is usually carried live on All India Radio's Hyderabad 'A' station and Doordarshan, Hyderabad following 'panchanga sravanam' (New Year calendar). In Andhra Pradesh, dishes such as pulihora, bobbatlu and preparations made with raw mango are the main items. In Karnataka too, similar preparations are made but called puliogure and holige.

What are the Ugadi delicacies? Ugadipachadi Puran Poli Pulihore Mango Rice