by Angel_Drishne Thu Mar 22, 2012 5:48 pm
On this day, people display the gudi, a symbol of victory, in their courtyards. The gudi is a kalash or pot inverted over a pole, that is wrapped in silk cloth and adorned with marigold flowers and mango leaves. It is believed that the gudi will ward off evil and usher in prosperity. The festival also celebrates nature's bounty. The gudi is put up at sunrise and remains till sunset.
People wear new clothes on this day and participate in a feast. The thresholds are adorned with colourful rangoli. Early in the day, the people eat a traditional mixture of a paste of neem leaves, ajwain, tamarind and jaggery. It is believed that the paste is capable of purifying the blood.
Maharashtrians believe that it was on this day that Lord Rama defeated the monkey-prince, Vali. Some people also believe that the festival commemorates the day Lord Vishnu incarnated as a fish (Matsyavatara) to protect the Earth.
