About Ugadi (Telugu New Year)
Ugadi is the New Year festival celebrated by Telugu and Kannada communities in southern India, marking the beginning of a new lunar year. The name comes from words meaning the start of a new age, and the day is regarded as an auspicious time for fresh beginnings, new ventures and prayers for prosperity. It is a vibrant blend of spiritual reflection, family togetherness and seasonal renewal as spring arrives.
A signature ritual is the preparation of Ugadi Pachadi, a special dish combining six tastes, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, tangy and spicy, symbolising the varied experiences of life and the acceptance of all of them. People clean and decorate their homes, draw rangoli, wear new clothes, visit temples and share festive feasts. In many homes the year's Panchanga, or almanac, is read to hear predictions for the months ahead.
Ugadi follows a lunisolar calendar and falls in the spring month of Chaitra, usually in March or April. Because it depends on the lunar cycle, the Gregorian date varies from year to year. The live countdown above tracks the next Ugadi for you. You can also add this countdown to your own page so friends and family can join the anticipation and welcome the new year together.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Wednesday, April 7, 2027next |
| 2028 | Monday, March 27, 2028 |
FAQ
When is Ugadi this year and what date does it fall on?
Ugadi falls in the month of Chaitra, usually in March or April. As it follows a lunisolar calendar, the Gregorian date changes each year, so check the live countdown above for the next exact date.
Why is Ugadi celebrated?
Ugadi marks the Telugu and Kannada New Year and the start of a new lunar year. It is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings, prayers and hopes for prosperity in the year ahead.
How is Ugadi celebrated?
People clean and decorate their homes, draw rangoli, wear new clothes and prepare special dishes, most notably Ugadi Pachadi. Many also visit temples and listen to readings of the new year's almanac.
What is Ugadi Pachadi?
Ugadi Pachadi is a special preparation blending six tastes, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, tangy and spicy. Each taste represents a different emotion or experience, reminding people to embrace all aspects of life in the year ahead.