Gudi Padva marks the beginning of the civil year among Hindus. Hindus observe this day by erecting a pole from which hangs a silk banner (a gudi) or a piece of women’s clothing and a drinking pot. There are a number of legends associated with the pole, but it generally serves as a good luck symbol. Other customs associated with this day are visiting friends, bathing, and eating leaves from the nim tree, which is believed to bring protection against illness, since this tree has a holy connection with Sitala, the smallpox goddess. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary