Hindu New Year: When It Happens and How to Celebrate

Hindu New Year isn’t a single day on the calendar. Different regions follow different lunar or solar cycles, so the date shifts each year. In 2025, Ugadi falls on March 23, Gudi Padwa on March 24, and Vishu on April 14. Knowing the exact day for your community helps you plan ahead.

Different Names, Same Spirit

Across India the festival goes by many names – Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Vishu in Kerala, and Baisakhi in Punjab. Though the rituals vary, the core idea stays the same: welcoming a fresh start, cleaning away the old, and hoping for prosperity.

Typical customs include cleaning the house, buying new clothes, and preparing special dishes. People also set up a "Kani" (arrangement of rice, fruits, and flowers) or a "Pookalam" (flower rangoli) to invite good luck. These visual cues remind everyone that a new cycle has begun.

Simple Ways to Join In

If you’re new to the celebration, start with a quick house clean and a few homemade sweets. Even a small rangoli at the entrance makes a big impact. Light a lamp, say a short prayer, and share the moment with family or friends.

Use your phone to make the most of the day. Set a reminder for the exact date, download a local festival app for prayer timings, and share photos of your rangoli on social media. Many apps also offer guided puja videos if you want to follow a ritual step‑by‑step.

Another easy tip is to send a digital greeting. A short message that says "Happy Hindu New Year" paired with a festive image can reach relatives far away instantly. It’s a modern twist on the age‑old practice of visiting loved ones.

For kids, involve them in making the Kani or arranging the rangoli. Explain why each item matters – rice for abundance, mango for sweetness, and coins for wealth. This turns a simple activity into a teaching moment about culture.

Finally, think about giving back. Many temples organize community meals or donate to charity on New Year’s day. A small contribution, whether cash or food, aligns with the festival’s spirit of generosity.

Whether you celebrate Ugadi, Vishu, or any other regional version, the Hindu New Year is a chance to reset, reflect, and look forward. Use the tools you already have – a phone, a kitchen, and a bit of time – to create a meaningful start to the year.