The Importance of Neem Plants At Gudi Padwa

Neem is a wonder plant, don’t you agree? From contributing to hale and hearty health to bringing in opulence and joy, the plant is popular for varied reasons. When the benefits are these many, it does call for a celebration, right? This is why the onset of Chaitra paves the way for the festivities to roll in. Marking the beginning is ‘Neem Day.’ Also popular as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, the first day of Chaitra is reckoned truly auspicious. Let’s read a little and get schooled about Gudi Padwa information.

Why is Gudi Padwa Celebrated?

In mythology, Gudi Padwa is significant as it marks the day when Mother Earth was created to bring life to the universe. Also known as Ugadi, the day is celebrated by Hindus to honor the rewards of the Creator. Some call it the ‘Neem Day’ too.

Have you ever wondered why neem holds a special place in any festival or celebration? Well, the Gudi Padwa festival certainly spills the beans. Neem is a cardinal plant, known to reward life with ace healing and revitalizing properties. If you are well versed with the benefits of Ayurveda or traditional herbal medicines, you are certainly aware that neem is at the heart of every combination. It does ensure that you live life in the finest fettle. Apart from the array of medicinal wonders the plant is famous for, it contributes to wellness and a happy lifestyle.

Much has been spoken about the Gudi Padwa history and the importance of ‘Neem’ in the festival. Let us now take a quick look at how the joyous occasion is celebrated and rejoiced.

The Celebration Kicks In!

The day of the Gudi Padwa festival kick-starts early, right in the crack of the morning. It begins with an early morning bath that is reckoned to be a sacred and purest form of cleansing. This is followed by an exciting task. People take pleasure in decking up the doorway with a fancy ‘Mangal Toran.’ Not quite sure what the term implies? Well, garlands of neem leaves and marigold flowers are used to bedeck the doorways.

A Gudi or flag is hoisted, lending relevance to the name ‘Gudi Padwa.’ The flag is a sign of victory, crafted out of bamboo, draped in vibrant and colourful silk scarves, accessorized with a floral garland, paired with neem leaves and mango leaves, the flag calls out for opulence and merriment. This is not all about the fancy decor arrangement. The flag is finally crowned with an inverted vessel of silver or copper. Do you know the importance of crowning the flag with a vessel? Well, the Gudi Padwa history has it that an inverted vessel symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. One of the primary reasons why the flag is raised in the front yards of every household, particularly on the right, is to keep the evil spirits at bay. There is no room for negativity, and only positive energy can thrive and flourish in the household.

Thinking what Padwa means? The word ‘Padwa’ is extracted from the Sanskrit term of ‘Pratipad.’ The festival marks the onset of spring and is celebrated on the very first day after the full moon. Bear in mind, neem and jaggery are extremely befitting for health. No wonder, it is mandatory to start-off the festival by chewing down a mix of neem leaves and jaggery. If you are not fortunate to witness the goodness and thrills of the Gudi Padwa festival, don’t be disheartened. You can always opt for medicinal plants delivery like the neem and stay clear from menacing health issues.