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Gregorian New Year vs Vedic New Year
The Vedic New Year commemorates the day Lord Brahma created the universe.
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 01, Jan 2026
- 00:00 EST
- 12
Representative image / Pexels
As 2025 draws to a close and Jan. 1, 2026 approaches, the Gregorian New Year is around the corner. However, the Hindu calendar calls for a little more patience.
According to the Vedic calendar, the coming New Year falls on March 19, 2026. Calculated as the day of Pratipada tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra, the date marks the beginning of Vikram Samvat 2083.
Falling on a Thursday, the day is considered auspicious, with Jupiter as the ruling planet and Mars as the minister planet.
Across India, the Hindu New Year is celebrated on the same day under different names. It is observed as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Ugadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, and Cheti Chand among the Sindhi community.
According to Hindu tradition, Chaitra Pratipada is regarded as the day Lord Brahma created the universe. The day holds immense religious and cosmic significance, symbolizing the dawn of creation and the beginning of time.
What to do
The occasion is marked by early morning rituals, cleaning and decorating homes with rangoli and mango leaves, and offering prayers to deities for prosperity and good health. Families prepare traditional dishes such as Ugadi Pachadi or puran poli, exchange greetings, and share festive meals while reflecting on new beginnings.
What not to do
It is advised that celebrations be free of tamasic foods, which are believed to promote lethargy or negativity. People are also encouraged to avoid negative thoughts, harsh speech and arguments, and to keep their homes clean. In essence, cleanliness of both mind and surroundings is emphasized, as the first day of the year is believed to set the tone for the rest of the year.
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