Rashtriya Hindu Navvash : 22 March 2023, Wednesday

Introduction:

Rashtriya Navvarsh, also known as Hindu New Year, is celebrated in India on the first day of the Hindu month of Chaitra. It marks the beginning of the traditional lunar calendar and is an important festival in India.

History and Significance:

The Vikram Samvat calendar was established by King Vikramaditya of Ujjain in 57 BCE. It is based on the lunar cycle and is still used in many parts of India today. The first day of the Hindu month of Chaitra marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat calendar, and this day is celebrated as Rashtriya Navvarsh. It is believed that Lord Brahma created the universe on this day and started the cycle of life and death.

• The Vikram Samvat calendar was established by King Vikramaditya, also known as Vikramaditya Parmar. He was a legendary king of Ujjain, who ruled during the 1st century BCE.

• King Vikramaditya was known for his bravery, wisdom, and patronage of scholars and artists. He is considered a symbol of Hindu culture and tradition.

• The Vikram Samvat calendar was based on an earlier calendar system called the Malava era, which was used in the Malwa region of central India.

• The Vikram Samvat calendar has 12 lunar months, each consisting of 29 to 32 days. It is used in many parts of India today, particularly in the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

• The first day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat calendar, is celebrated as Rashtriya Navvarsh. It is believed to be the day when Lord Brahma created the universe and started the cycle of life and death.

• Rashtriya Navvarsh is also known as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, and Cheti Chand in the Sindhi community. While the names and customs may differ, the underlying theme of welcoming the new year with positivity and enthusiasm remains the same.

Motive behind Rashtriya Navvarsh:

The motive behind the celebration of Rashtriya Navvarsh is to welcome the new year with positivity and enthusiasm. It is a time to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the coming year.

How to Celebrate:

Rashtriya Navvarsh is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy across India. People wear new clothes and decorate their homes with flowers and rangolis. They offer prayers to their deities, observe fasts, and perform puja ceremonies to seek blessings for the coming year. In some parts of India, people celebrate by performing traditional dances and music, such as Bhangra and Garba. The festival is also a time for families to come together and share meals, sweets, and gifts.

Additional Points:

Apart from these, it is also important to clean and decorate the house with flowers and rangolis. It is a time to give back to the community by donating to charities and helping those in need. Finally, it is important to start the new year with a positive mindset and a renewed sense of hope and optimism.

Conclusion:

Rashtriya Navvarsh is a significant festival in India that highlights the importance of starting afresh and embracing new beginnings with positivity and enthusiasm. As we gear up to celebrate Rashtriya Navvarsh 2023, let us remember to welcome the new year with open arms and a renewed sense of hope.