Ugadi marks the beginning of a New Year in Maharastra, Andhra Pradesh and part of Karnataka. It is called Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, in Maharashtra it is known as ‘Gudi Padava’.

The New year festival or Ugadi is celebrated after Holi. Ugadi name has been changed from Yuga Aadi (Yuga + Aadi means "Beginning of New age").  It is believed that Lord Brahma created the world on this day and so he is special at this time. It is said that on this day, Lord Vishnu also to have been incarnated as Matsya, the fish.

Ugadi marks the beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar with a change in the moon's orbit. It is a day when mantras are chanted and predictions made for the New Year.

On Ugadi day, people wake up before the break of dawn and take a bath after which they decorate the entrance of their houses with fresh mango leaves. People also splash fresh cow dung water on the ground in front of their house and draw colourful floral designs. This is a common sight in every household. A gudi (banner) with swastika-marked pot and silk cloth is raised to announce victory and joy. It is reminiscent of the valiant Marathas returning home from their successful conquering expeditions of war.

Gudi Padva is considered to on of the four most auspicious days in the year when people start new ventures.