Chaitra masa in the traditional Hindu lunar calendar will begin today, March 22, being celebrated as Ugadi in Karnataka. It heralds the beginning of the spring season when mother nature wakes up to new shoots, leaves, and plants.
Ugadi is the new year for Kannadigas. On this special day, people wake up before sunrise and take a ceremonial oil bath. The idols worshipped at home and temples are also given oil bath. Mango leaves adorn the entrance of the homes and temples. Flower decorations and colourful rangolis at the entrance give a festive look. A special ritual is to distribute Bevu-Bella, a dish consisting of Neem flowers and Jaggery. It is meant to signify that we must accept bitterness and sweetness in life with equanimity. The day is also known for Panchanga Shravana which is the reading of the Panchang consisting of forecasts for the coming year.
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