The festival of Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the traditional new year. It is primarily celebrated by Maharashtrians and Goans. The festival derives its name from `gudi` which is the flag of Lord Brahma and `padwa`, which signifies the first day of the phase of the moon.  

The auspicious occasion signals the onset of the warmer days and the spring season and is observed with colourful floor decorations, a special flag garlanded with flowers, mango, and neem leaves, and topped with upturned silver or copper vessels, street processions, dancing and festive foods like shrikhand puri.