Ugadi 2026: Date, rituals, celebration and significance of Telugu new year

Ugadi is one of the most prominent festivals celebrated in South India. This day marks the new beginning of the year. This day falls on the first day of Chaitra month that occurs during the month of March-April. This festival is based on the position of Moon and Sun so the date changes every year. This day is also celebrated as Telugu New Year. This year, Ugadi is going to be celebrated on Pratipada tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month Chaitra i.e., on March 19, 2026.

Ugadi 2026: Date and Time

Pratipada Tithi Begins - March 19, 2026 - 06:52 AM

Pratipada Tithi Ends - March 20, 2026 - 04:52 AM

On this auspicious day, Telugu Shaka Samvat 1948 Begins

Ugadi 2026: Significance

Ugadi is the major festival that is celebrated in mainly celebrated in the different regions of South India. Th word Ugadi means The word “Ugadi” comes from two Sanskrit words: "Yuga" (age) and "Adi" (beginning), which means "the beginning of a new age." This festival holds a great religious and spiritual significance. This is not just a festival that changes the calendar year. According to Hindu mythology, this is the day Lord Brahma began the work of creating the universe. Ugadi festivals arrives during the spring season, when the old leaves are falling down and trees sprout new leaves and the winter season fades away. This day marks the beginning of new year, fresh start, new agricultural cycle, and it represents that we must leave the past behind and look forward with the things that are coming in life.

Ugadi 2026: Rituals

1. People wake up early in the morning before sunrise and take oil bath, which is believed to purify the body.

2. They wear new clothes after taking bath.

3. Decorate their home with fresh flowers and mango leaves or torans. The mango leaves signify well-being.

4. Women create vibrant rangoli using colorful powders and flower petals to welcome positivity.

5. There is a ritual of Panchang Sravanam which means elderly member make forecast based on the zodiac signs about rainfall, harvest and overall prosperity.

6. There is a most significant ritual, which is preparing the traditional dish Ugadi Pachadi. It is the first item eaten on the festival day.

7. Write down all your goals on a paper and see what you want to achieve in the new year.

8. This day is celebrated by calling your relatives or friends at home. People come together to strengthen the bonds.