Nagpur: Traditional rituals, cultural showcases, and community-led programmes across several localities will usher in Gudi Padwa, the Maharashtrian New Year, and Ugadi, the Telugu and Kannada New Year, on Thursday.On Gudi Padwa, which marks the beginning of the Chaitra Navratri festivities, citizens will be hoisting the Gudi which symbolises victory, prosperity, and new beginnings. Gudi is a symbolic arrangement of a bamboo stick draped in silk cloth, adorned with neem leaves, mango twigs, and an inverted pot. Markets in areas such as Mahal, Sitabuldi, and Dharampeth witnessed increased footfall, with shoppers purchasing rangoli, garlands, traditional attire, and decorative items on eve of the festival on Wednesday.Adding to the festive momentum, the Nav Varsha Swagat Samiti (Itwari Division) organised a ‘Women’s Bike Rally’ on Gudi Padwa eve for the 18th consecutive year. The rally commenced from Agyaram Devi Mandir and concluded at Shri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir, traversing routes including Ganeshpeth, Tilak Putla and Chhatraparti Shivaji Maharaj Chowk, Kelibagh Road, Badkas Chowk, Gandhibagh and Agrasen Chowk.Women rode Bullets, motorcycles, and scooters, dressed in traditional attire such as paithanis. Many also donned fetas and safas, adding a distinct cultural vibrancy to the procession. In a striking display, one participant painted herself in peacock blue and portrayed Lord Krishna, drawing attention and appreciation from onlookers. The rally blended celebration with cultural expression, contributing to the festive spirit across the city.Students of Shri Chhatrapati High School and Junior College presented a lathi-kathi (a traditional martial arts) demo during the event.Several mandals and cultural organisations have planned shobha yatras and performances across the city to mark the occasion. Dhol-tasha troupes, lezim and folk performances such as powadas are expected to feature, reflecting Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.
